The Guide to Blended Learning is an introduction using technology and distance education teaching strategies with traditional, face-to-face classroom activities. This Guide has been designed to assist teachers adopt blended learning strategies through a step-by-step approach taking constructivist and design-based approach and reflecting on…

Presents a nine-step process for designing simulation games for use by real-world clients in actual policymaking situations. For example, this design model could be used to produce a game for railroad company executives needing to explore the probable impact of railroad deregulation on its operation. (LLS)

Discusses the process of debriefing following a simulation game and the role of the facilitator in debriefing. Guidelines, including specific activities and questions the facilitator might ask, are suggested for the three phases of debriefing--description, analogy/analysis, and application. (MES)

Uses game theory to help practitioners make decisions about educational games, simulations, or workshops whose outcomes depend to some extent on chance. Highlights include principles for making decisions involving risk; elementary laws of probability; utility theory; and principles for making decisions involving uncertainty. (eight references)…

A designer of educational games and simulations analyzes his own design process which revealed unexpected weaknesses in his mode of working, led him to consider how to minimize them when designing future games and simulations, and resulted in changes to a more efficient and effective work style. (EAO)

This paper discusses computer simulation as a tool for teaching about phenomena characterized by a problem to be solved, a task or goal to be reached, a procedure to be learned, or an environment to be understood. Simulation is defined and characterized by an examination of both the attributes that are common to simulations, and a taxonomy…

Reviews the literature concerning the advantages and uses of simulation games as a mode of instruction. Offers guidelines on developing such games for classroom use. Concludes that simulation games can increase student motivation, retention, and development of social skills. (Author/WD)

Reviews the literature on debriefing and identifies the essential elements and phases of the debriefing process. A model for systematic assessment of debriefing is presented which consists of five sets of questions that focus on learning objectives, situational constraints, the debriefing strategy, implementation of the strategy, and the…

SIMPAR, a simulation game designed to allow participants to play out assigned roles which parallel some of the real life aspects of parent-child relationships, is presented. SIMPAR is a game about workers (children) and foremen (parents) in a handicapped work setting in a company called PARLINK, Inc. The following topics are covered: (1) an…

This article discusses the value of using fantasy and role playing games (FRPG) in the curriculum of gifted students. It lists ways that FRPG can supplement 26 academic subjects and develop 24 learning skills. Objections from religious groups to use of the games are addressed. Different types of games are compared. (CR)

An overview of participative exercises of the game/simulation/case study type is provided, and seven distinct types of exercises are identified and briefly described; i.e., "pure" games; "pure" simulations; "pure" case studies; simulation games; games used as case studies; simulated case studies; and simulation games used as case studies. The…

This paper is designed to provide the educator with an overview of instructional applications of the computer, along with important issues related to each application. Applications discussed include computer managed instruction, drill and practice, simulation, computer assisted testing, instructional games, tutorials, problem solving, and…

Gives recommendations for training college and university faculty in the fundamentals of simulation design using short, concise training programs. Thirteen references are listed. (Author/LLS)

Games have only recently been accepted as educational tools, but their potential value is yet to be realized. It is suggested that school library media specialists should investigate this method for actively involving students in the learning process. Game construction and a sample game are included. (Author/CMV)

Describes a large-group simulation, titled "Lump Sum," to demonstrate decision-making processes in multicultural groups. Simulation directions, results, and supporting publications are presented. (Author)