Discusses methods of browsing in online public access catalogs (OPACs) and describes one method that uses information pertaining to the physical description of books from MARC records to simulate images of books on a library shelf. Electronic browsing through MARC is discussed, and methods of enhancing OPACs are reviewed. (51 references) (LRW)

Discussion of instructional transaction theory focuses on knowledge representation in an automated instructional design expert system. A knowledge structure called PEA-Net (processes, entities, and activities) is explained; the refrigeration process is used as an example; text resources and graphic resources are described; and simulations are…

The methodology of P. E. Holland and P. R. Rosenbaum (1986) to assess unidimensionality of binary data is outlined and illustrated through a simulation with 36 items for 2,000 examinees. How to interpret the results is discussed. (SLD)

Defines transposition operations (changing the way the display of the model proceeds) in diagrams within computer graphics. Describes transpositions that are spatial (moving the point of view or the point viewed), procedural (changing the flow of time), or organizational (arranging multiple simultaneous views and interjecting auxiliary measuring…

A simulation study compared the performance of the Mann-Whitney "U" test, Student's "t" test, and the alternate (separate variance) "t" test for two mutually independent random samples from normal distributions, with both one-tailed and two-tailed alternatives. Type I error probabilities were computed with equal and…

Discusses the use of simulation, a form of interactive multimedia training that re-creates the work environment to a degree of near realism, as a training method. Discusses the benefits of simulations and the cost and process of developing materials. (JOW)

Sixty-three college students worked with a computer simulation in which gradually increasing model complexity (model progression), model progression plus small assignments, or a control condition without either were used. Definition knowledge increased for all three conditions, but intuitive knowledge gain was greater for the two experimental…

This study examined issues in supporting middle school teachers to become more learner centered when implementing computer-based, workplace simulations in their classrooms. Focuses on a participant observation study of two teachers to develop and evolve a framework for professional development that included reflective skills and proximal goals.…

Presents several theoretical solutions to a geometry problem involving circles and probability. Includes simulation procedures to estimate the solutions. (MKR)

Hypothesizes that the construction of visual models, resolution of these visual models with numeric models and, in many cases, rejection of commitments such as the belief in one true velocity, are necessary for students to form integrated mental models of relative motion events. Studies high school students' relative motion problem solving.…

Investigates the effects of using molecular modeling on students' spatial ability, understanding of new concepts related to geometric and symbolic representations, and perception of the model concept. (Author/CCM)

Evaluates first-year college students' perceptions of molecular modeling. Examines the effectiveness, integration with course content, interests, benefits, advantages, and disadvantages of molecular modeling. (Author/CCM)

Decribes a variation on Bingo that provides a non-routine probability investigation through which students develop concepts of chance. (Author/CCM)

Experiments in an accelerating frame are hard to perform. Illustrates how simple computer software allows sufficiently rapid and accurate measurements to be made on an arrangement of weights and pulleys known as Atwood's machine. (Author/CCM)

In the future, virtual reality technology based initially on data from Visible Human Data sets will provide the majority of simulation-based training. Indicates that evidence-based outcomes must show these systems to be effective instruments for teaching and assessment, and medical educators must be willing to effect change in medical education to…