A usable instructional system is defined as a system that enables learners to accomplish learning goals or tasks in an effective and efficient way. This paper investigates the usability of the Virtual Hospital Round (VHR) prototype, and explores medical students' and professionals' attitudes toward the VHR system. Results of the evaluation of the…

The acceptance of animation technologies is increasing. Video games, such as Sony PlayStation (SONY, 2002), have become part of the culture for young people from kindergarten through undergraduate school. Animation technologies have been implemented into educational systems in the form of animated pedagogical agents (Johnson, 2000). The research…

Traces the evolution of the Curry Teaching Simulations and their impact on preservice and experienced teachers during the past 16 years. Highlights include versatility in software; navigation; pedagogical assumptions, including transfer of learning; and research on training skills and on teaching patterns. (Author/LRW)

Examines automated speech technologies (AST) and describes uses in education and training. Topics include AST in foreign language instruction and translation; AST in medical education, including economic considerations; and needed research and development for AST in education and training, including voice recognition technology and advanced…

Investigates the impact of computer simulation on students' academic achievement and their mastery of science process skills with regard to their cognitive stages. Based on the computer simulation program "The Growth Curve of Microorganisms" which requires 10th grade biology students to use problem solving skills while simultaneously…

Supercomputing is described in terms of computing power and abilities. The increase in availability of supercomputers for use in chemical calculations and modeling are reported. Efforts of the National Science Foundation and Cray Research are highlighted. (CW)

Examines three studies that investigated the use of technology in social studies education: (1) Project ICONS (International Communication and Negotiation Simulation) for college and high school students; (2) a study of sixth graders that used "Archaeotype," a computer simulation archaeological site; and (3) a decision-making study of…

Discusses the performance of a long-term intelligent training system for the U.S. Air Force, Sherlock I and II. The Sherlock systems have been effective, but their acceptance rate has not been high. An attempt is made to understand this paradox, and approaches for improving the systems' effectiveness are proposed. (Contains 19 references.) (JLB)

Discusses the contexts where virtual reality (VR) training environments might be appropriate; examines the advantages and disadvantages of VR as a training technology; and presents a case study of a VR training environment used at the NASA Johnson Space Center in preparation for the repair of the Hubble Space Telescope. (AEF)

Describes the attributes of a virtual reality system, including flexibility, presence, control and interaction, and feedback; and identifies learning situations in which these attributes would play a key role. Research on virtual reality and related technologies at SRI International (formerly Stanford Research Institute) is summarized. (nine…

Discusses the use of virtual reality as an educational tool. Highlights include examples of virtual reality in public schools that lead to a more active learning process, simulated environments, integrating virtual reality into any curriculum, benefits to teachers and students, and overcoming barriers to implementation. (LRW)

Special education uses three types of computer-based instruction software: drill and practice, tutorials, and computer simulation. Assistive technology applications (electronic communication devices, voice-activated software, and print readers) are available for students whose disabilities do not allow them to perform functional tasks…

Discusses the needs, problems, advantages, disadvantages, and solutions in the use of new technologies in a specific context such as engineering education. Finds that lecturers in scientific subjects believe that the technical subjects benefit greatly from the ability to teach with technology, but logistical problems especially prevent the use of…

The design of "Probability Explorer" was inspired by: lack of research-based elementary probability software; constructivist principles for designing computer microworlds; and research on children's probabilistic reasoning. Discussion includes the inspirational and theoretical basis for design; conceptualizing the "Probability Explorer"…

Compares the advantages and disadvantages of using simulation games as a teaching tool. Describes some tactics to turn disadvantages into advantages, and concludes by describing the role of the game leader as crucial to learning outcomes. (Author/AEF)