Examines the problem of determining the minimum center of mass for a can with a varying height of liquid in it. Uses PC SOLVE computer software to graphically represent the problem situation. (MDH)

Presents a study to determine whether computer use in guided-discovery learning episodes would enhance the problem-solving ability of secondary school students (n=147). Results indicate interaction between low- and middle-level students' mathematical achievement and treatment groups, while high-level students performed well regardless of approach.…

Describes the basic mechanisms of the SimQuest, an authoring system for designing/creating simulation-based learning environments. The functionality authors have in providing the learner with guidance and experiences on how authors use opportunities and learners employ the cognitive support are reported.(Author)

This paper presents a framework for understanding conditions of discovery learning in computer-based microworlds. It begins with a short discussion of problems related to a traditional type of microworld--i.e., learning tools for mathematics--using the Dienes Multibase Arithmetic blocks as an example. In this discussion, hypotheses are developed…

Discussion of Logo use to teach children computer programing covers the educational theory behind Logo, how it differs from other programing languages, its educational promise, its graphics capabilities, Logo research, and different versions available. It is argued that educational computing will succeed only if it provides new ways of teaching.…

Discusses the nature and function of mental models, explains tools for exploratory and expressive learning, and describes a research program to be conducted in the United Kingdom for 10- to 16-year-olds that is designed to explore characteristics of students' mental models. Highlights include knowledge domains; software, including simulations; and…

Investigates a complex aptitude treatment interaction (ATI) of intelligence and metacognitive skill as aptitudes with structuredness of learning environment as treatment, based on a study of undergraduates in simulation environments. Highlights include computer-assisted learning and experiential learning; ATIs and discovery learning; and learning…

This empirical investigation, implemented with a computer program, examined the influence of graphical and numerical representations on the discovery process involving iteration sequence properties and concomitant problem-solving abilities for 79 eleventh grade students and 22 secondary mathematics teachers. Results indicate that heuristics and…

Describes the use of a microcomputer-based authoring system to facilitate student-centered discovery oriented learning in an undergraduate social science course. Use of the authoring system to implement student-generated experiments, to become familiar with statistics and experimental methods, and to promote empirical thinking is discussed. (14…

Twelve middle school students, working in pairs, used a computer microworld to explore introductory geometric transformational concepts. Despite a tendency for symbolic overgeneralization, the students were able to use visual feedback from the microworld and discussions with partners to correct their own mistakes. (Author/JJK)

Discussion of computer simulations used for exploratory learning focuses on the design of a hypothesis scratchpad that students can use for hypothesis generation and testing. An experiment with college chemistry students that compared three versions of the scratchpad is described, and the effect of the scratchpads on learning environments is…

Discusses the use of the computer software MINITAB in teaching statistics to explore concepts, simulate games of chance, transform the normal variable into a z-score, and stimulate small and large group discussions. (MDH)

About 21% of all U.S. public school students attend schools equipped with multimedia computers, videodisc players, and other software designed to combine text, graphics, and sound in interactive applications. Multimedia software products can nurture the seven multiple intelligences identified by Howard Gardner, if properly implemented.…

Describes the Microworld Chance, a simulation-oriented computer environment that allows students to explore probability concepts in five subenvironments: coins, dice, spinners, thumbtacks, and marbles. Results of a teaching experiment to examine the effectiveness of the microworld in changing students' misconceptions about probability are…

Uses Derive as an instructional tool to investigate asymptotic behavior of rational functions. Activities focus on reducing manipulation and computation and on generating multiple examples to focus on discovery of the concept rather than a summary of rules. (MLN)