In a seminal article published in 2006, Jeanette Wing described computational thinking (CT) as a way of "solving problems, designing systems, and understanding human behavior by drawing on the concepts fundamental to computer science." Wing's article gave rise to an often controversial discussion and debate among computer scientists,…

The authors describe a simulation game for gifted children which involves three factions--government, business, and labor--who have to come to agreement on questions, contracts, and environmental controls. Sections outline pregame activities, statement of the problem, game objectives, the scenario, characters and their goals, procedures, and…

Inservice workshops employing simulation exercises can effectively provide school board training. Such training encourages board members to view problems from numerous perspectives, develop confidence, and build camaraderie. Problem-solving simulation steps are outlined, and six sample scenarios are offered for consideration. (MLH)

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

"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)

The purpose of this paper is to present problems (and solutions) from the areas of marketing, population planning, system reliability, and mathematics to show how a computer simulation can be used as a problem-solving strategy in probability. Examples using BASIC and two methods of generating random numbers are given. (Author/MP)

Discusses steps involved in model building and simulation: understanding a problem, building a model, and simulation. Includes a mathematical model (focusing on a problem dealing with influenza) written in the DYNAMO computer language, developed specifically for writing simulation models. (Author/JN)

Explores the use of simulations as a teaching method for gifted students. Identifies positive effects of simulations and distinguishes different types. Notes disadvantages related to time, money, and experience as are unique features of the teacher's role in this approach to instruction. Lists guidelines for choosing a model and deciding on a…

A six-part marine science simulation game for 4-H members concerning land use in a hypothetical community is provided. The major problem is to decide what are some possible uses of a three-mile (1,250 acre) Marsh Beach which the city recently purchased. Members assume the roles of decision-makers in the simulated environment and compete for…

An account of an effort to inculcate the habit of collegiality in advanced students in school administration, this paper describes an exercise in "simulated deliberation" focusing on policy formulation. According to the author, who was also group leader, students were given basic facts surrounding a problem in race relations and asked to identify…

This booklet presents an extensive simulation exercise intended to give readers a greater understanding of the role and responsibilities of the local school district superintendent and to aid readers in improving their administrative, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. The booklet is organized in two major parts. Part 1 contains background…

Although considered by most scholars as minor research, descriptive studies can make important contributions toward the development of simulation game research. Descriptive research studies are often simply case studies of the experiences of persons who have field tested, observed, or participated in a simulation game exercise. This kind of…

Provides a detailed description of Lemonade, a business game designed to introduce elementary and secondary students to the basics of business; i.e., problem solving strategies, hypothesis formulation and testing, trend analysis, prediction, comparative analysis, and effects of such factors as advertising and climatic conditions on sales and…

In a mountaineering role-playing project in Quebec schools, participating students, in groups of five, must cooperate and use the different skills acquired across the whole curriculum to overcome difficulties and attain success. The students plan a simulated mountain-climbing expedition, solve problems, and cope with various crises. (TD)