Discussion of educational computer simulations focuses on the parallel instruction theory that was developed at the University of Twente to combine the simulation with instructional materials, including those that may be printed. The MacTHESIS design system and philosophy are discussed, and simulation and learning environments based on the…

An experimental class in introductory statistics (n=40) using simulation software at American University was compared to a traditionally taught control group (n=36) with respect to achievement and accrued beliefs about the benefits of the simulations. Results indicate significantly higher achievement scores for the experimental class with about…

Students' views of science as static, mixed, and dynamic are characterized. The relationship between views of science and acquisition of integrated understanding of thermodynamics is examined. Students with dynamic views acquired more integrated understanding than those with static views. Data were collected from 153 middle school students who…

Probability theory can be developed from a theoretical or experimental probability approach. The problem, "The Gambler's Ruin," is used to study whether students are naturally sensitive to learning probability from an experimental probability approach through simulations. Results indicated that use of simulations can contribute to…

Describes the use of interactive videodiscs in Dutch secondary vocational school departments of pharmaceutical education for testing theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a simulated real-life situation. An example is given, feedback and scoring are explained, and criteria for reliability with a classical text analysis are discussed.…

A theoretical discussion of categorization, unit structures and structured units, and fractions as operators was introduced. The thinking of grade-three students (n=3) with regard to the meaning of fractions was investigated in two teaching episodes using the computer environments of SuperPaint and CopyCat. (Contains 14 references.) (MKR)

Simulated data typical of those from meta analyses are used to evaluate the reliability, Type I and Type II errors, bias, and standard error of the meta-analytic procedures of Schmidt and Hunter (1977). Concerns about power, reliability, and Type I errors are presented. (SLD)

Investigates the effects of preservice teachers working in paired-learning conditions versus working independently on a computer-based tutorial/simulation designed to teach users about an electronic-mail system. Findings support previous research on the positive effects of paired learning using computer-based instruction designed for individual…

Describes the development and use of two computer simulations for investigating systems thinking and environmental problem-solving in children (n=92). Finds that older children outperformed younger children, who tended to exhibit magical thinking. Suggests that seemingly isomorphic environmental problems may not be interpreted as such by children.…

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…

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)

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…

In this article, we present a study focused on developing students' understanding of the ecology through participation in a technology-supported urban planning simulation--specifically, 11 high school students in Madison, Wisconsin acted as urban planners to redesign a local shopping street using a Geographic Information System (GIS) model. This…

Problems related to disruptive behaviors of children in schools continue to be a topic of public debate and empirical inquiry among teachers and researchers across America. Although this problem is historic, it has resurfaced, with momentous attention during recent years. This article focuses on a computerized simulation used as an integrated…