Reports on the development of a laboratory exercise that would allow students to explore the concept of genetic drift. Discusses the concept of genetic drift that is coincident with natural selection and that closely models the real world. (DDR)

Computer-assisted language-learning literature points to a need for experimentation with innovative learning structures to realize the full potential of recent technological developments. Reports on a research project that addresses these concerns by exploring the experiences of 23 French second-language learners as they worked independently with…

A computer simulation used in teams by 151 business students tested their ability to translate strategy into decisions. Over eight weeks, the experiential learning activity encouraged strategic decision making and group behavior consistent with long-term strategy. (SK)

Presents a classroom simulation in which one firm pollutes the water used by another. Includes a detailed outline and discussion of the preparations and materials required, and the procedure for running the simulation. Argues that students learn how property rights provide a market solution to pollution costs. (DSK)

Sequential, standardized patient-based tests were given to medical students at the University of Maastricht (Netherlands); the first test was a screening test that evaluated the efficiency/validity of cutoff scores. Findings indicated that stringent pass/fail cutoff scores on the screening test produced optimal results. Fewer than 0.2 percent of…

This study evaluated the use of video-delivered simulations of child maltreatment as a mean of probing the personal safety knowledge of young children. It was concluded that such an approach is methodologically difficult and ethically problematic and controversial. Concerns about possible harm to participants and difficulties in obtaining…

Outlines a nine-step structure for debriefing an international business culture simulation. Stresses the need to address three stages in the experiential learning cycle: reflection, processing, and transfer. Appendices include the specific simulation used and a debriefing note. (DB)

A Monte Carlo study was conducted using simulated dichotomous data to determine the effects of guessing on Rasch item fit statistics and the Logit Residual Index. Results indicate that no significant differences were found between the mean Rasch item fit statistics for each distribution type as the probability of guessing the correct answer…

Proposes definitions for on- and off-the-job assessment. Presents a model for education and assessment in the workplace that includes (1) development of knowledge, skills, and abilities; (2) performance in simulated or practice situations; and (3) competence in occupational practice. Considers when to choose on- or off-the-job assessment. (SK)

Describes a study conducted in undergraduate science classes in Singapore using computer modeling and simulation. Reports that the use of computer models and simulations proved to be valuable in explaining many aspects of science. Students reported that three-dimensional images helped them in their understanding. Contains 22 references.…

Examines Simulated Group Counseling (SGC), a training model for graduate-level group workers. During a four-year period, 98 graduate students participated in 12 role-played SGC groups. SGC followed a model of group development and was highly consistent with expected changes in non-role-played groups. Discusses SGC advantages, especially related to…

Explores economic aspects of digital journal production and delivery using Ithink Analyst, a modeling software package. Three models were developed and simulations were used to monitor the effect of variations in the values of key model elements. Discusses results that show staff costs and overhead are the most substantial costs for scholarly…

Examines comprehension of causal text sequences (in simulation) using construction-integration analysis. States that 16 preliminary simulations, applied to 2 text frames each, influenced decisions concerning 4 simulation choice points. Reveals good qualitative fit between the construction-integration activation of the probe questions and their…

Demand for Pell Grant financial aid has become difficult to predict when using the current microsimulation model. This paper proposes an alternative model that uses aggregate data (based on individuals' microlevel decisions and macrodata on family incomes, college costs, and opportunity wages) and avoids some limitations of simple linear models.…

Describes a simulated student that learns by interacting with a human tutor. Tests suggest that simulated students, when developed past the prototype stage, could be valuable for training human tutors. Provides a computational cognitive task analysis of the skill of learning from a tutor that is useful for designing intelligent tutoring systems.…