Discusses the performance of a long-term intelligent training system for the U.S. Air Force, Sherlock I and II. The Sherlock systems have been effective, but their acceptance rate has not been high. An attempt is made to understand this paradox, and approaches for improving the systems' effectiveness are proposed. (Contains 19 references.) (JLB)

Discusses the contexts where virtual reality (VR) training environments might be appropriate; examines the advantages and disadvantages of VR as a training technology; and presents a case study of a VR training environment used at the NASA Johnson Space Center in preparation for the repair of the Hubble Space Telescope. (AEF)

Describes the attributes of a virtual reality system, including flexibility, presence, control and interaction, and feedback; and identifies learning situations in which these attributes would play a key role. Research on virtual reality and related technologies at SRI International (formerly Stanford Research Institute) is summarized. (nine…

Discusses the use of virtual reality as an educational tool. Highlights include examples of virtual reality in public schools that lead to a more active learning process, simulated environments, integrating virtual reality into any curriculum, benefits to teachers and students, and overcoming barriers to implementation. (LRW)

Special education uses three types of computer-based instruction software: drill and practice, tutorials, and computer simulation. Assistive technology applications (electronic communication devices, voice-activated software, and print readers) are available for students whose disabilities do not allow them to perform functional tasks…

Discusses the needs, problems, advantages, disadvantages, and solutions in the use of new technologies in a specific context such as engineering education. Finds that lecturers in scientific subjects believe that the technical subjects benefit greatly from the ability to teach with technology, but logistical problems especially prevent the use of…

The design of "Probability Explorer" was inspired by: lack of research-based elementary probability software; constructivist principles for designing computer microworlds; and research on children's probabilistic reasoning. Discussion includes the inspirational and theoretical basis for design; conceptualizing the "Probability Explorer"…

Compares the advantages and disadvantages of using simulation games as a teaching tool. Describes some tactics to turn disadvantages into advantages, and concludes by describing the role of the game leader as crucial to learning outcomes. (Author/AEF)

Three-dimensional virtual worlds are an emerging medium currently being used in both traditional classrooms and for distance education. Three-dimensional (3D) virtual worlds are a combination of desk-top interactive Virtual Reality within a chat environment. This analysis provides an overview of Active Worlds Educational Universe and Adobe…

Audio-visual advances in virtual reality (VR) technology have given rise to innovative new ways to teach and learn. However, so far teaching and learning processes have been technologically driven as opposed to pedagogically led. This paper identifies the development of a pedagogical model and its application for teaching, studying and learning…

Many researchers and instructional designers increasingly recognise the benefits of utilising three dimensional virtual reality (VR) technology in instruction. In general, there are two types of VR system, the immersive system and the non-immersive system. This article focuses on the latter system that merely uses the conventional personal…

The Global University System (GUS) is a world wide initiative to create an advanced telecommunications infrastructure for access to educational resources across national and cultural boundaries in the search for global peace. GUS aims to create a world wide consortium of universities to provide the underdeveloped world with access to 21st century…

This paper presents a rationale for using high-fidelity computer simulation in planning for and implementing effective multicultural education strategies. Using computer simulation, educators can begin to understand and plan for the concept of cultural sensitivity in delivering instruction. The model promises to emphasize teachers' understanding…

The field of instructional technology is characterized by its products, such as instructional media, and its processes, such as instructional design. The process of instructional technology has been shaped by advances in learning and instructional theory over the past 50 years. Much of the development work of the field to date has been on direct…

The effectiveness of environmental simulations in developing students' awareness of environmental issues, whether perception of environmental relationships was affected by the simulations, and whether the use of microcomputers as the medium of instruction affected student attitudes towards computers were investigated in this study. Undergraduates…