Discusses computer-based training (CBT) methods that emphasize an interactive learning environment but do not require video. Topics addressed include cognitive processes; different levels of interaction, including simulation or problem solving; the use of icons and buttons; hypertext; differences in learning styles; and thought-provoking…

Presents a simulation activity that allow students to work through the exercise of DNA profiling and to grapple with some analytical and ethical questions involving a couple arranging with a surrogate mother to have a baby. Can be used to teach the principles of restriction enzyme digestion, gel electrophoresis, and probe hybridization. (MDH)

Describes a unified case method for teaching professional writing wherein the writing assignments for a semester occurred within and were constrained and shaped by the context of one particular situation. Observes that students were more interested and enthusiastic about their assignments, and the work they produced was more successful. (NH)

The sensitivity of marginal maximum likelihood estimation of item and ability (theta) parameters was examined when prior ability distributions were not matched to underlying ability distributions. Thirty sets of 45-item test data were generated. Conditions affecting the accuracy of estimation are discussed. (SLD)

The paper addresses application of new educational technologies to dental education. Noted is technology's ability to create an electronic curriculum that uses images and text to advance problem-solving and problem-based learning. Information technology provides a risk-free (i.e., patient-free) environment for dental students to test decisions.…

A study assessed the feasibility of sequential testing of medical students using standardized patients. Sequential testing passes students who score well on the first segment of the test thus eliminating additional student-standardized patient encounters. Subjects were six classes of Southern Illinois University students (n=404). Results strongly…

A modification of a test of the equality of nonindependent alpha reliability coefficients is proposed. It avoids the limitation that the product of the number of test parts times the number of subjects be quite large. Monte Carlo studies indicate that this test can be used in comparing interrater reliabilities. (SLD)

Inference is considered for the marginal distribution of "X" when ("X", "Y") has a truncated bivariate normal distribution. The "Y" variable is truncated, but only the "X" values are observed. A sample of 87 Otis test scores is shown to be well described by this model. (SLD)

Addresses some basic aspects of Archimedes' law. Focus is on potential energy relationships so as to elucidate some common misunderstandings and to facilitate making bridges with other physical topics. A spreadsheet model is used as a simulation tool. (Author/NB)

Describes a new concept for business education at Mercer County Community College called the International Business Practice Firm (IBPF), developed in response to employer calls for a more global approach in teaching American business students. Outlines the IBPF learning process, which teaches students business, technology, and "soft"…

Describes the structure and operations of a computer simulation model used in Papua New Guinea, developed with technical assistance from UNESCO. Notes that model establishes baseline data on student enrollments, teacher posts, and costs of education, and can be used to simulate policies under consideration and provide output on student flows,…

Examines the efficacy of nonresidential expanded tax base (ETB) approaches to school finance. A simulation estimated effects of statewide and regional nonresidential ETB approaches on measures of student equity for New York school districts. ETB approaches would improve student equity at no additional cost to the state and need not adversely…

Presents a hands-on activity designed to be a simulation of meiosis. (WRM)

Business undergraduates (n=261) participating in an assessment center simulation were evaluated by graduate students and faculty. Assessor-peer and assessor-self ratings lacked convergent and divergent validity, but self-peer ratings had both. (SK)

As part of the development of a scoring algorithm for a simulation-based dental hygiene initial licensure examination, this effort conducted a task analysis of the dental hygiene domain. Broad classes of behaviors that distinguish along the dental hygiene expert-novice continuum were identified and applied to the design of nine paper-based cases…