Advances have been made in testing optometrists' clinical skills, particularly with the use of simulation techniques. Further research into these techniques will probably receive the most attention, although a shift in research emphasis from correlational studies of test validity and reliability to test development studies is needed. (MSE)

Describes "Josef," a robot programing language similar to the LOGO turtle language, which has been designed as an instructional system through which the algorithmic problem-solving skills required in computer programing can be developed and tested in a controlled learning environment. Four figures and a reference list are included. (JL)

Issues management is defined as a distant early warning system through which colleges and universities can develop strategies to deal with legislative, community, and internal issues before they reach a crisis point. The issues management process at Texas Christian University is described. (MLW)

Problems in the usefulness of current financial assessment methods are examined and specific suggestions are made for assessment methodology and validation procedures. Expert ratings, if improved, could be a meaningful validation criterion. Self-assessment, while useful for individual schools, is not as useful for multiple institutions as…

Describes the game STRATAGEM and its usage by university students preparing for examinations. The game, which comprises questions coded by topic and level of complexity (recall, application, and inference), is designed to focus student attention on important content, foster accurate assessment of team potential, and encourage risk-taking.…

Instruction, like life, cannot always be planned, especially when teaching students the skills for interacting with real life situations and problems. (Author)

Describes activities to foster computer literacy at Lyons Township High School (Illinois). Goals include computer literacy to be attained by all, computer competency for many in the problem-solving disciplines, and computer specialization for those interested in the computer per se. (Author/JN)

"Big Business" is a series of computer simulations designed to give players a chance to compete in the practical world of business and finance. The basic elements of the simulations and versions designed for home use, middle school students, and high school students are described. (Author/JN)

"Lemonade" is one in a series of simulations designed to permit exploration of elementary concepts in economics. The nature of the simulation, problem-solving skills fostered, and suggestions for use of the program in the classroom are discussed. (Author/JN)

Argues for a decision-making-oriented science and technology curriculum for secondary school students which should: (1) expose students to open-ended problems within their natural setting; (2) provide students with real decision-making situations; and (3) involve students in scientific/technological social actions (in community institutions or…

To encourage students to become involved in the inventive and imaginative dimensions of biology, students are asked to invent: a useful product, way to use old newspapers, insect repellent, organism attracter, organelle separater, way to measure rate of hyphal growth, and method to measure strength of spider web. (DC)

A program which offers the principal advantages of individualized problem sequences and interactive remedial assistance, and runs in a format that allows one machine to serve more students than the common types of computer-based exercises, is described. Copies of the program listing are available from the creator. (MP)

A paradigm is presented on administrative decision-making processes. The paradigm includes the possibility of developing a new policy as part of the problem- solving process. (JN)

Reports on a marriage preparation program using a small discussion-group format and pre- and postwedding sessions, emphasizing communication patterns and conflict resolution. Evaluation shows that spouses in such a program are less likely to engage in destructive conflict with each other, and that spouses would seek assistance in solving problems.…

Details of pupil exploration as to the largest number of sides that a polygon could have on a geoboard are presented. The problem is not seen as open-ended, but many different avenues of pursuit stem from it. (MP)