Illustrates that history can be brought to life and internalized in an authentic fashion in a variety of situations. Demonstrates the step-by-step process by which teacher and class can formulate, prepare, plan, research, rehearse, and present role-playing simulations for class, school, and community. Includes a student persona worksheet.…

Compares humanlike versus machinelike interactional styles of computer interfaces, testing hypotheses that evaluative feedback conveyed through a humanlike interface will have greater impact on individuals' self-appraisals. Reflected appraisals were more influenced by computer feedback than were self-appraisals. Humanlike and machinelike interface…

NASA research into plant-based regenerative systems for sustaining colonies in space provides the core content for the Classroom of the Future (COTF), a NASA sponsored project that transfers research on space exploration to high school biology classrooms. This article describes and evaluates BioBlast (Better Learning through Adventure, Simulations…

Describes some alternatives to dissection offered to teachers through the National Anti-Vivisection Society (NAVS) and other sources. These include models, CD-ROMs, and software that enable students to click on scalpels, scissors, and other instruments to cut through videotaped specimens. Also details the Dissection Hotline and the Dissection…

Describes the basic mechanisms of the SimQuest, an authoring system for designing/creating simulation-based learning environments. The functionality authors have in providing the learner with guidance and experiences on how authors use opportunities and learners employ the cognitive support are reported.(Author)

Students at Clay County High School (West Virginia) get real-world work experience through the school's comprehensive School-to-Work program, now in its third year. Given the limited job availability in this poor rural area, the school supplements work-site experiences with school-based business enterprises, student construction projects, and…

Presents a lesson on the Mare Island Mutiny, in which 258 African American soldiers refused to load ammunition during World War II. Students participate in a simulation of a present-day congressional trial to evaluate whether justice prevailed in the original Mare Island mutiny trial. Includes handouts. (CMK)

BioWorld is a computer-based environment for the high school biology curriculum that provides a hospital simulation where students can apply what they have learned to solve problems about diseases. Analyses of student actions and verbal dialogue were conducted to pinpoint within BioWorld that were most conducive to learning and scientific…

Explores how users interact and learn during computer-based simulations given graphical and textual forms of feedback. Graduate students were randomly assigned computer simulations with graphical feedback, textual feedback, or graphical plus textual feedback. Findings indicate that graphical feedback provides experiential learning, but that these…

The Department of Rehabilitation Studies at Massey University (New Zealand) incorporates attitude-changing strategies during the students' first year in the program. These strategies involve personal contact with people with disabilities, provision of accurate information about disabilities, and simulation or role playing. Students' attitudes…

Two ways of using videotape recording to test law students are discussed: for development of reflective practice through feedback and self-observation, and to provide a more realistic final exam problem. The author's techniques are described, focusing on goals/objectives, methodology, and grading. It is argued that video, used most often for…

Provides an overview of virtual reality from an education perspective. Defines the technology in terms of equipment and participatory experience, examines the potential applications of virtual reality in education and training, and considers the concerns and limitations of the technology. Overall, research indicates that virtual reality offers…

Addresses the use of technology to enhance teaching and learning in a classroom environment. Discusses classroom setups, including networks and Internet connections; utilizing resources, including lecture notes, software demonstrations, and simulations; the use of laptop computers; and examples of technology use where students don't have access to…

Describes a study that investigated project-based learning that included role plays, discussions, and simulations in graduate-level Web-based courses. Highlights include a theoretical framework; characteristics of activities that enable students to meet learning objectives; strategies that student facilitators and student participants use to…

Illustrates how the Dick and Carey systems approach model (1990) can still be used as part of the instructional design and developmental process in an inquiry-based online constructivist learning environment. Focuses on the Shell Island Dilemma, a scientific inquiry simulation on the Carolina Coastal Science Web site. (AEF)