The utility of the pretraining of task-relevant cognitive skills within the context of experimental research methodology was investigated in this study. A criterion referenced pretraining multi-media product was developed and applied to support the initial phase of an experimental research effort in which several instructional methods for training…

The Computerized Decision Development System (DEDEV) is designed to foster decision-making competency in individuals through a two stage process: (1) providing information about scientific decision-making, and (2) providing experience with use of information in "meaty" problems by computerized gaming and simulation. This manual presents the 14…

Simulated experience in interviewing and medical evaluation of patients was developed to help nursing students learn assessment skills, using simulated patients (mostly other university students) to "practice" on. While reactions varied, students' overall comments indicated that the learning experience was beneficial. (MF)

Describes a computer program which enables students to carry out a simulated three stage mineral exploration program. (SL)

Explains a teaching activity designed to help students develop an appreciation of the role of animal control officers in the community and the importance of licensing their pets. Includes playing instructions, reproducible game cards and a game board, and a supportive statement from the director of a state humane society. (TW)

Defines computerized functional business games as those focusing on decision making and integration in the areas of accounting/finance, marketing, personnel/human resources, and production/operations. Nine currently available games are reviewed and evaluated in the context of a learning model. (Author/LRW)

Describes a student teacher's experiences using a classroom simulation to teach fifth graders about the world of work. Summarizes the economic concepts and principles that were illustrated through the simulation of a candy factory. Discusses student activities and reporting in the five-six day lesson and includes a list of resources for teaching…

The study examined the relative effectiveness and efficiency of general case in vivo and general case simulation plus in vivo training in teaching six students with moderate and severe disabilities to purchase items in fast-food restaurants. Although both strategies led to reliable performance in nontrained settings, the in vivo instruction…

Discussion of laboratory experiment simulation in science and engineering education focuses on the need for authoring systems that can be used to create simulations. An editor for a simulator model containing variables and mathematical equations is presented, and screen displays and data analysis are discussed. (LRW)

Discusses how "technique" and "strategy" for teaching oral expression have their origins in a wide variety of communicative acts and their components. (MSE)

A class project devised for a college business German course involves the simulated establishment of two companies, one domestic and one in West Germany, to trade with each other. The project has proven attractive to students, added new dimensions to the textbook used, and provided communicative practice for business transactions. (MSE)

Explanation of the purpose of microcomputer simulations in history classes at the college or secondary school level focuses on the development of one simulation, The American Revolution. Highlights include effects on learning processes of using simulations in a microcomputer laboratory; student evaluations of the simulation; and creation of the…

The article describes courseware developed by Project LIVE (Learning Through Interactive Video Education), designed to teach generic, cognitive independent living skills to mentally handicapped adolescents. The curriculum focuses on Life Enhancement Skills as content domain, uses multiple teaching strategies (e.g., verbal rehearsal), and…

Describes winners of a software awards program developed by EDUCOM and the National Center for Research to Improve Postsecondary Teaching and Learning (NCRIPTAL). Evaluation criteria used to judge software appropriate for undergraduate students in the fields of social sciences, natural sciences, humanities, English composition, mathematics and…

Provides information and reviews of geography computer software classified as drill-and-practice, simulations, and databases. Includes title, publisher, hardware needed, suggested grade level, geographic area covered, content emphasized, and the strengths and weaknesses of each program. (TW)