Describes a computer simulation for teaching diplomacy that has been used at the University of New Orleans (Louisiana). The program enables students to examine the interaction of war with diplomacy by addressing the subject both historically and socio-psychologically. Discusses the results and makes recommendations for modifications. (KO)

Describes an activity for use as an introduction to a U.S. government course. Involves placing the students in a you-be-the-judge situation through the consideration of a Supreme Court case. Requires essay writing, small group work, and reporting to the class. Points out that these exercises provide structure for the course. (KO)

Describes research project being implemented in the United Kingdom that has been developed to examine the process of change in secondary school students' conceptual understandings in the physical sciences. Models of conceptual change are described, the role of computer based activities in promoting conceptual change is discussed, and software…

In this article, the reflective practitioner is first defined conceptually and operationally. Implications for structuring teacher preparation programs that enable reflectivity are then discussed. (Author/IAH)

Five articles describe improvements in instructional software designed to enhance problem solving skills. Issues addressed include problem solving software to implement curriculum goals; problem solving theory and writing theory; software for elementary and secondary school science instruction; software for mathematics instruction; and cognitive…

Communication competence for hearing-impaired individuals who use speechreading involves understanding nonverbal cues, making communication needs known, using alternative strategies, and using component skills effectively. Speechreading training should include real-life simulations, situational role-playing, and modeling of difficult situations…

A review of laboratory research estimating effects of mild hearing impairment on infant speech perception abilities, under conditions simulating mild hearing loss in normal hearing infants, suggests that even mild alterations of auditory input during infancy may have significant developmental consequences. Results support identification,…

A computer-based replacement for an electronics laboratory experiment was created and tested on second-year undergraduate students in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Southampton (England). Responses, assessed by questionnaire, showed that computer-assisted learning techniques provide a viable means for teaching…

A multimedia module for training college faculty in discussion-leading techniques consists of a computer-based component, demonstration videotape, and practice session. Use of the module with an initial group of teachers has resulted in increased confidence in discussion skills, rearrangement of participants' classrooms, and positive participant…

Describes a computer model characterizing the balance of soil-plant Nitrogen that allows students to see the likely consequences of different biological and weather-related parameters. Proposes three uses for the model: (1) orienting beginning students to understand the soil Nitrogen cycle; (2) providing information for advanced students; and (3)…

Presents a Project WET water education activity. Through a game of tag that simulates the effects of environmental stressors on macroinvertebrate populations, students relate the concept of biodiversity to the health of an ecosystem. (LZ)

This article describes virtual reality (VR) technology and discusses its potential application to the teaching of social skills to children and youth with behavior disorders through the use of interactive role plays. Limitations of the current technology and difficulties inherent in modeling simulations of human behavior are noted, as are…

Microcomputer software that simulates drug-concentration time profiles based on user-assigned pharmacokinetic parameters such as central volume of distribution, elimination rate constant, absorption rate constant, dosing regimens, and compartmental transfer rate constants is described. The software is recommended for use in undergraduate…

This study explored the conflict resolution ability of 30 children with specific language impairment (SLI) and 30 children with normal language (NL) in grades 3 through 7. Children with SLI suggested fewer types of strategies to resolve hypothetical conflicts than their NL peers. The groups did not differ in the number of strategy types used in…

Because of increased aid to developing nations, cross-cultural evaluation has become more common. Whether culture has an influence on evaluation was studied by simulating a study of Mexican and U.S. agricultural administrators. Results demonstrate the effects of cultural differences on evaluation. (SLD)