Used Monte Carlo simulation to determine the psychometric conditions under which differences between raw scores and Rasch transformations of those raw scores are detectable through two-way analysis of variance. Findings demonstrate the inherent inadequacy of untransformed raw scores for two-way analysis of variance. (SLD)

Discussion of connectionist views for adaptive clustering in information retrieval focuses on a connectionist clustering technique and activation spreading-based information retrieval model using the interaction information retrieval method. Presents theoretical as well as simulation results as regards computational complexity and includes…

This research tested the hypothesis that young children's bias to generalize names for solid objects by shape is the product of statistical regularities among nouns in the early productive vocabulary. Fifteen- to 20-month-olds given intensive naming experiences with typical noun categories developed a precocious shape bias and showed accelerated…

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination used in British nursing education can enhance skill development through simulated experiences. Survey results from 86 students and 39 lecturers show that it can be effective when used formatively for hands-on practice and feedback. (Contains 16 references.) (SK)

Discusses how students learn to model in scientific contexts. Highlights include current research in science education; a computer-based simulation of a student learning to model; an example of a physics task; collaboration with another student; a dialog mechanism; and external representations. (LRW)

A nonmetric algorithm, pairwise partitioning, is developed to identify feature-based similarity structures. Presents theorems about the validity of the features identified by the algorithm, and reports results of Monte Carlo simulations that estimate the probabilities of identifying valid features for different feature structures and amounts of…

A procedure for detection of differential item functioning (DIF) is proposed that amalgamates SIBTEST and kernel-smoothed item response function estimation to assess DIF as a function of the latent trait theta that the test is designed to measure. Smoothed SIBTEST is studied through simulation and real data analysis. (SLD)

Explores technology in science education in five paths: (1) science texts and lectures; (2) science discussions and collaboration; (3) data collection and representation; (4) science visualization; and (5) science simulation and modeling. (Contains 92 references.) (Author/SOE)

Reviews empirical and theoretical issues associated with inserting computer simulations into biological instruction to help students better understand science concepts. The available empirical research on simulations suggests that simulated dissection and actual dissections typically lead to equivalent performance on achievement tests, simulations…

In Finnish vocational colleges, students create business plans for hypothetical companies, using information from actual firms partnering with the schools. Students are able to test knowledge and tools using real-world data, learn about alternative forms of work organization, and establish network relationships with the business world. (Contains…

Describes the implementation of an intelligent tutoring system that employs a game environment and object-oriented user interface for teaching and learning, based on a computer game developed for industrial training. Discusses adventure games, game environments in education, simulation support, and user interface design. (Author/LRW)

New Zealand cooperative education students participated in mock and preemployment employer interviews. Responses from 10 students and 10 employers showed that most students had no formal interview experience and were apprehensive about preplacement interviews. Trial interviews improved self-efficacy through exposure to employer questions and…

Proposes a modified version of commonly employed item response models in a fully Bayesian framework and obtains inferences under the model using Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques. Demonstrates use of the model in a series of simulations and with operational data from the North Carolina Test of Computer Skills and the Test of Spoken English…

Explored the feasibility of applying a method that incorporates collateral information to equate tests constructed for a college entrance examination by comparing its results with those of item response theory (IRT) true score equating. Simulation results suggest that, overall, equating results based on collateral information are relatively…

Studied the relationships between two real time dynamic decision making tasks (microworlds) and one intelligence test with 100 Swedish adults. Raven's Progressive Matrices scores were a predictor of success in the two microworlds. Discusses methodological problems with microworlds. (SLD)