Describes a game developed by concerned students from the University of Manitoba to simulate the world's environment and development. Includes how the 1,100 square foot map was made, how props to complement the map were collected, and a description of the first simulation with 80 high school students. (MDH)

Three heuristic methods of assessing the dimensionality of binary item pools were evaluated in a Monte Carlo investigation. The indices were based on (1) the local independence of unidimensional tests; (2) patterns of second-factor loadings derived from simplex theory; and (3) the shape of the curve of successive eigenvalues. (SLD)

A method is presented for estimating the item characteristic curve (ICC) using polynomial regression splines. Estimation of spline ICCs is described by maximizing the marginal likelihood formed by integrating ability over a beta prior distribution. Simulation results compare this approach with the joint estimation of ability and item parameters.…

Describes a semester-long simulation based on experiential learning called CO-MADE, which was developed to train teachers in syllabus design and instructional materials development. Simulation design is discussed, and use of the simulation in a postgraduate training program for students wishing to become teachers of English to speakers of other…

Describes a computer-assisted simulation that was used to improve foreign language learning among engineering and teaching students. The use of telecommunications is discussed; the foreign policy orientation of the simulation is described; and the positive effects of the simulation on student motivation, independent learning, and cooperation are…

In a simulation study, factor analysis and multidimensional item response theory (IRT) models are compared with respect to estimates of item parameters. For multidimensional data, a common factor analysis on the matrix of tetrachoric correlations performs at least as well as the multidimensional IRT model. (SLD)

Occupational reading competencies that should be taught in workplace literacy programs include technical vocabulary, finding and using information, following directions, and self-regulation of reading processes. Simulations of work tasks help learners understand the importance of reading in work settings. (SK)

The American Association of School Administrators is currently developing a National Executive Development Center for the professional development of senior school executives. The initial Texas site is expected to be joined with a consortium of six pilot sites. Describes the design assumptions of a diagnostic and professional development system.…

Described is the author's decision to help a student find alternatives to performing several terminal experiments on animals in a college physiology class. Replacement exercises used for studying the properties of muscle types are described. Details about the difficulties and successes of the entire experience are reported. (KR)

Reviews the development and the principal elements of total quality management (TQM) and demonstrates methods for introducing some of the key elements into a strategy-oriented business simulation game that can be used to teach future managers. Topics discussed include increased focus on the customer; continuous improvement; and competitive…

Fourth graders were presented decision-making tasks that required hands-on manipulation of objects or manipulation of images using a microcomputer. Computer manipulations used (1) keyboard input; (2) keyboard input and the presentation of reference objects; or (3) light pen input. Subjects required more time to respond to the task when using…

Presents results of a study to determine the effectiveness of the Stock Market Game in contributing to students' learning about financial markets. Suggests that the biggest advantage of the game it its ability to motivate students. Includes the test that was used by the study to determine how much the students had learned. (DK)

Use of parallel analysis (PA), a selection rule for the number-of-factors problem, is investigated from the viewpoint of permutation assessment through a Monte Carlo simulation. Results reveal advantages and limitations of PA. Tables of sample eigenvalues are included. (SLD)

Investigated model for reducing time for administration of Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) using real-data simulation of Bayesian scaling in computerized adaptive administration. Findings from simulation study using data from 127 undergraduates are strongly supportive of use of Bayesian scaled computerized adaptive administration of MBTI.…

Discusses the possible lack of credibility in educational interactive computer simulations. Topics addressed include "Shopping on Mars," a collaborative adventure game for arithmetic calculation that uses direct manipulation in the microworld; the Alternative Reality Kit, a graphical animated environment for creating interactive…