Describes the Performance Improvement Programme (PIP) system, which uses a series of structured questionnaires focused on learning objectives to assess the effectiveness of management simulation. Results of evaluation of four simulations are summarized, and the influence of personal learning style is considered. Five annotated references are…

Implications of ignoring correlated error on parameter estimates in some simple structural equation models are examined. It is shown analytically and empirically through simulation that ignoring positive between-construct correlated error overestimates the structural parameter linking the two constructs. Effects become more pronounced with…

The PARallELogram Analysis (PARELLA) model is a probabilistic parallelogram model that can be used for the measurement of latent attitudes or latent preferences. A method is presented for testing for differential item functioning (DIF) for the PARELLA model using the approach of D. Thissen and others (1988). (SLD)

Examines which skills students develop through social studies and how technology can help elementary students strengthen them. Important skills include understanding and using locational and directional terms and developing research, thinking, decision-making, interpersonal, and reading skills. Technology skill-builders include telecommunications…

Suggested computer programs for teaching about the 1992 election include a package of four social studies programs with an election year theme, a simulation in which students act as the incumbent president and solve various problems, and an interactive program with news clips, stills, and data from the 1988 elections. (SM)

Describes a microcomputer-based digital video course that uses virtual reality to teach the code inspection (i.e., formal software technical review) process. Use of virtual reality for group process activities that involve interpersonal and group dynamic skills is discussed, and research indicating that realism improves course effectiveness is…

An extension is proposed for the network algorithm introduced by C.R. Mehta and N.R. Patel to construct exact tail probabilities for testing the general hypothesis that item responses are distributed according to the Rasch model. A simulation study indicates the efficiency of the algorithm. (SLD)

Describes efforts to modernize the firefighting training facilities of the Royal Navy in the United Kingdom through the use of computer-controlled simulations of ship fires. The structure of a prototype compartment and the control system that sets up various training scenarios and modulates the environment in response to actions by the trainees…

A collection of 17 biology texts and computer software produced at Beloit College (Wisconsin) by an interdisciplinary group let students conduct simulated scientific experiments that would be impossible in a laboratory and complete complex statistical analyses quickly. The programs focus on three stages of scientific research: problem posing,…

Discusses the potential for training perception and cognition in sport through video simulation of game situations. The paper reviews perceptual training studies and data from studies involving slide and video training in basketball. Issues that arise when creating simulations and assessment of transfer are discussed. (SM)

A study compared the interviewing skills of 15 advanced-standing (bachelor's degree-holding) and 23 master's degree students of social work, with blind raters evaluating student use of 3 core skills: facilitation; questioning/clarification; support/empathy. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups, supporting the…

Argues that educational practices that focus only on hands-on experience within a discipline are not enough to permit students to experience a discipline in its fullest sense. Emphasis should also be placed on the cognitive goals of developing the knowledge, skills, and understanding of disciplines to permit students to communicate and reason…

The HyperCard-based computer-assisted instructional environment described--called the Virtual Computer (VC)--uses simulation to help learners acquire basic concepts about the functioning of computers. Discussion of the instructional design of the program includes Elaboration Theory, four learning phases, use of metaphors and analogies, other…

An exemplar-based model of social judgment is presented in which specific past experiences and more abstract schematic knowledge influence judgments and perceptions of people and groups. Computer simulations illustrate the way the model accounts for social influences on exemplar access and use and on the content of social judgments. (SLD)

College students around the world confer by computer in the International Communications and Negotiation Simulation. The simulation is offered by schools within the curriculum or as an extracurricular activity, with faculty as coordinators. Student teams are given scenarios and country assignments, prepare a position paper, and participate in the…