Item analysis data fitting the normal ogive model were simulated in order to investigate the problems encountered when applying the three-parameter logistic model. Binary item tests containing 10 and 35 items were created, and Monte Carlo methods simulated the responses of 2,000 and 500 examinees. Item parameters were obtained using Logist 5.…

The application of computer technology in education is a relatively new approach that is trying to justify inclusion in the Kenyan school curriculum. Being abstract, with a dynamic nature that does not manifest itself visibly, the process of cell division has posed difficulties for teachers. Consequently, a computer simulation program, using…

Reports on an experiment which used computer games to increase the efficiency of information processing and concentration skills among learning disabled (LD) children. Results showed that computer games presented within the framework of self-verbalization procedures and peer-interaction facilitated the information processing of LD children.…

This study investigated the effectiveness of computer simulations for enhancing the problem solving skills of high school students. Summaries of three related studies are presented. Results indicate that the computerized simulations enabled students to master the objectives of a biology course as effectively as traditional methods. (ML)

Three articles discuss various aspects of computers in elementary education: (1) the use of electronic information services with elementary students in Maryland; (2) the introduction of computers into classrooms with students aged 10-12 in Switzerland; and (3) the use of microcomputer-based simulation in the United Kingdom to encourage…

Reports the results of a simulation-based analysis of Black and Hispanic public school teacher employment in Texas. The simulation reflects recently instituted teacher testing requirements in mathematics and language competence and projects how the program is likely to affect the racial-ethnic composition of public school teachers in Texas over…

Using 74 eighth graders, the effects of computer-assisted cooperative, competitive, and individualistic instruction were compared. Computer-assisted cooperative instruction promoted greater quantity and quality of daily achievement, more successful problem solving, more task-related student-student interaction, and increased the perceived status…

A study was conducted to assess effectiveness of a computer simulation which exposed students to three levels of real-life research situations as laboratory experience accompanying graduate level research design course. Simulation effects on achievement, perceived research competence, interest in research, and effects of differing amounts of…

This experiment used simulated production environment to examine empirically two of five management information system design assumptions Ackoff considered erroneous: managers perform better with detailed rather than summarized reports; and managers who are satisfied with needed information perform better than those who are dissatisfied and want…

We report the findings of an empirical analysis of the performance of a group of middle and high school students before and after an after-school algebra enrichment program using the SimCalc software incorporating classroom networks. The results highlight statistically significant gains in their learning and briefly outline contributing factors of…

The 15 conference papers in this report address a variety of issues such as computer applications in mechanics and optics, three-dimensional representation in physics teaching, computers in the physics laboratory, information technologies, the perceptual approach in physics education, improving students' conceptual understanding in physics, using…

Describes a study that examined the relationships in achievement between members of dyads who were paired according to epistemological maturity. Each dyad engaged in a photosynthesis simulation exercise. Also examines the relationship between individual students' epistemological maturity and their understanding of photosynthesis. Contains 24…

Discussion of the use of interactive video (IV) as an instructional medium focuses on its uses in the teaching of professional interpersonal skills. Topics discussed include the use of IV for tutorials and simulations; learning theories; a model of skill acquisition; hypothesis testing; and nine principles for interactive video designs. (33…

Describes a study of eighth-grade students that investigated the impact of computer simulations on students' ability to generalize scientific concepts from classroom to naturally occurring problems. A curriculum for teaching thermodynamics that was reformulated to emphasize integration of understanding is described, and student reactions are…

Investigates differences between high-achieving and low-achieving school-based decision groups in decision making. Decision groups (207 groups of 3 members each) used computer simulations to address problems facing principals concerning fourth grade academic achievement. Higher-achieving groups made more decisions and made a combination of related…