Learner-centered software design (LCSD) guides the design of tasks, tools, and interfaces in order to support the unique needs of learners: growth, diversity and motivation. This paper presents a framework for LCSD and describes a case study of its application to the ScienceWare Model-It, a learner-centered tool to support scientific modeling and…

Fostering teachers' clinical reasoning as a reflection of their understanding of classrooms should be a central purpose of any modern teacher education program. This article presents a rationale for and description of a proposal for pre-student teaching laboratory experiences which utilize computer-based simulations to facilitate development of…

Evaluates the use and efficiency of two computer learning tools for basic virology. "VIROLAB" is a simulation of a biology laboratory which also includes a hypertext providing learners with some knowledge on virology. The Hypertext is a version of the hypertext in VIROLAB. The study examined which of the two was most efficient for knowledge…

Computer-based instruction could have considerable impact on improving the quality of science education. Simulations and interactive problems provide a means for students to explore scientific concepts and experiment without the expense or hazard of using actual materials. This paper focuses on the instructional design process as it relates to the…

Continued advances in computerized training technology allow for a better link between instruction and evaluation. The use of computer-controlled audio and video feedback takes the automation of a mastery learning approach with its frequent shifts between instruction and testing a step further and begins to blur the distinction between training…

High and low level questions as determined by a panel of evaluators were combined with corrective feedback and attribute isolation feedback to form four versions of a computer-based science lesson. The sample consisted of 154 high school chemistry students in a suburban high school. The primary hypothesis was that students who received high level…

This study investigated the efficacy of using the advance organizer as a device to improve medical students' understanding of a clinical case simulation on the microcomputer and to enhance performance on a posttest. Advance organizers were found to be effective and most consistent with Mayer's assimilation theory. (MBR)

Reports on a study that compares the performance of students enrolled in two sections of a Web-based computer networking course: one utilizing a simulation package and the second utilizing a static, graphical software package. Analysis shows statistically significant improvements in performance in the simulation group compared to the…

Discusses characteristics of software that teachers should consider when selecting software, and reviews programs of good quality for use in elementary and/or secondary classes. Instructional design considerations and the amount of time required for a program are discussed, and games, tutorials, simulations, and drill and practice software are…

Describes several corporations' in-house produced interactive multimedia training methods that use video and CD-ROMs to simulate work activities. Reviews each training method's design, computer equipment, costs, benefits, and lessons learned. Lists 10 checkpoints for charting a successful interactive course and a sidebar presents a cost benefit…

Examines factors that should be considered in designing an independent study undergraduate library skills course using computer-assisted instruction based on experiences at the University of Minnesota, Saint Paul. Highlights include the use of HyperCard, revising modules, interaction, simulations, student attitudes, lack of instructor feedback,…

A study of 228 undergraduate psychology students examined the effectiveness of a prototype of "heatlab," a laboratory simulation written in PCE-PROLOG, intended for remedying misconceptions of the concepts "heat" and "temperature." The effect of varying the amount of structure on students' understanding and the…

Discussion of the effects of the new information age and new technologies on business and higher education was originally given as the keynote address at EDUCOM '87. Highlights include new organizational patterns; a new paradigm for lifelong learning; the necessity for integrating research and instruction; hypermedia; simulation; and artificial…

Discusses role of computer simulation in complementing and extending conventional components of undergraduate engineering education process in United Kingdom universities and polytechnics. Aspects of computer-based learning are reviewed (laboratory simulation, lecture and tutorial support, inservice teacher education) with reference to programs in…

Presents several examples of models for applying data management computer programs to instruction from point of view of an imaginary student. Commentaries following each example speculate on virtues and possible shortcomings of each approach, with the intention of offering valuable perspectives for improved understanding of effective computer use…