Argues the pros, cons, and alternatives to animal dissection. Discusses several cases involving student objections and the enactment of a California state law which upholds the right of a student to conscientious objection to dissection involving the harmful or destructive use of animals. (RT)

A modification index is presented to aid in reformulating hypothetical models rejected after analysis of empirical data. This index is an improvement over the one in the LISREL V computer program in that it takes into account changes in all parameters of the model when one parameter is freed. (SLD)

Four measurement designs are presented for use with correlation coefficients corrected, in one variable, for attenuation due to unreliability (partially disattenuated). Associated asymptotic variance/covariance expressions are presented. Empirical simulation results illustrate the satisfactory Type I error control and statistical power of the…

A polychotomous nominal response model-based computerized adaptive test (CAT) was simulated using data from 1,093 University of Texas students. The ability estimation of this model and its overall performance were compared with those of a dichotomous three-parameter logistic model-based CAT. Advantages and drawbacks of nominal response CAT are…

Reviewed are four computer software packages including "Project Classify: Mammals,""Living Science Textbook--The Frog,""Life Science Help Series," and "Talking Dinosaurs." Discussed are availability, features, strengths, and weaknesses. (CW)

Provides a BASIC program to compute the number of shuffles required for packs containing even numbers of cards up to 100. Lists 4 further questions on the shuffling program. (YP)

Describes a program developed by the Department of Teaching and Learning at Peabody College (Vanderbilt University) which uses technology to develop preservice teachers' decision making skills. The program examined problems that student teachers encountered in their practice teaching experiences and developed a series of learning experiences using…

Discussed are three examples of computer graphics including biomorphs, Truchet tilings, and fractal popcorn. The graphics are shown and the basic algorithm using multiple iteration of a particular function or mathematical operation is described. An illustration of a snail shell created by computer graphics is presented. (YP)

Discusses the question, "how do learners best learn." Urges teachers to strive to create a community atmosphere within the classroom. Suggests things teachers can do which will assist in the process of creating this community atmosphere. Lists organizations and their addresses from which information can be obtained. (KO)

Describes a geometry database unit for elementary classrooms in which students determine geometric attributes of a variety of shapes, and then set up a database that can be used to answer questions about the figures. Activities described include creating a database record format, simulating searches, and applying search criteria strategies. (five…

Describes learning activities based on the U.S. Constitution that enhance higher level thinking skills in elementary students. One activity proposes a hypothetical constitutional amendment banning Saturday cartoons; a second taxes children's earnings; and other activities focus on dramatizing events surrounding the Constitutional Convention. (LS)

Functional and structural relationship alternatives to the standard "F"-test for analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) are discussed for cases when the covariate is measured with error. An approximate statistical test based on the functional relationship approach is preferred on the basis of Monte Carlo simulation results. (SLD)

Some examinees' test-taking behavior may be so idiosyncratic that their test scores are not comparable to those of more typical examinees. A new theoretical approach to appropriateness measurement is proposed that specifies a likelihood ratio test and an efficient computer algorithm for computing the test statistic. (TJH)

Describes the historical use of assessment centers as staff development and promotional tools and their current use in personnel selection. The elements that constitute a true assessment center are outlined, and a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages for employers and applicants focuses on positions in library administration. (10…

Examines the degree of fidelity required of a computer simulation to ensure maximum transfer of training. Simulators used in the military services for training pilots are described; relationships between fidelity, transfer, and cost are explored; and feedback to the student and measures of training effectiveness are discussed. (nine references)…