This project represents the first year of a proposed two-year program to develop FEHR-PRACTICUM (Formative Evaluation and Heuristic Research), a computerized game which simulates experience in a research evaluation assistantship or practicum. In the game teams of from two to five players are given the task of finding the "best" among several…

A Statistical Experiment Simulator (STEXSIM) has been developed which permits one to stimulate on a digital computer a wide range of experimental environments. As a teaching aid in applied statistics, it provides a means for an instructor to define a completely crossed factorial model with up to seven fixed or random main effects, three two-factor…

Discusses a study which investigated whether a computer simulation model could suggest subroutines that were instructable and whether instruction on these subroutines could facilitate subjects' solutions to the problem task. (JM)

Illustrates different types of opportunities for using computer assisted instruction (CAI) on personal computers in the teaching of economics with four examples of currently available software. Describes the difficulties in providing and supporting CAI, and concludes with an analysis of the difficulties caused by the "public goods character" of…

Describes a variety of computer software. Subjects reviewed include history simulations and wordprocessing programs. Some of the eleven packages reviewed are Thog, North Utilities, HBJ Writer, Textra, Pro-cite, and Simulation Construction Kit. (BSR)

Learning about the physical environment from computer simulation models is discussed in terms of three stages: exploration, experimentation, and calibration. Discusses the effective use of models and presents two computer simulations written in BBC BASIC, STORFLO (for catchment hydrology) and SLOPEK (for hillslope evolution). (Author/GEA)

Reviews the uses of DEMOS, a set of demographic computer simulations which can be used to improve instruction in introductory sociology courses. Gives examples of both interactive and noninteractive exercises, concluding that DEMOS is easy to use and enjoyable, with approximately 90 percent of students recommending its continued use. (GEA)

Discusses a program in Belgium which studied the use of computers as teaching devices for economics and business education in secondary schools. Describes three courses in which the computer is used as a source of information, as a tool for computer assisted instruction, and as a tool for simulation. (GEA)

The author discusses advantages and disadvantages of computer-based training. She covers the search for high quality courseware, computers' effects on cognitive processes, the difference between classroom and computer-based training, using simulations, control of the learning experience, and the value of repetition. (CH)

Advocates the use of databases and simulations in social studies classrooms. Maintains that quality instruction, both before and after computer use, determines the quality of the learning experience. Provides titles of several simulation and database products. (JDH)

Describes "Looking Glass," the Financial Services Industry, and other simulations for management training seminars. The article examines how the games teach decision making and allow participants to become involved. It also discusses the future of computer-based training and the costs of such programs. (CT)

Requirements for the games and simulations available in economics education surveyed range from simple equipment to computer facilities. Some attempts at game and simulation evaluation are summarized and criticized in general and in the context of economics education. Comments on the evolving literature on principles of game design are included.…

Interactive videodisc systems offer individualized instruction that actively involves the learner. Benefits and drawbacks of using videodiscs in the classroom are discussed. (DF)

Although students who used the Physical Science Study Committee experiments improved in their understanding of the conservation of momentum, greater gains were made by those who used a computer simulation of one dimensional elastic collisions in a vacuum. (AL)