Factors in successful implementation of simulation in construction education are as follows: (1) considering human factors and feedback effects; (2) focusing on tradeoffs between with managerial decisions and construction policies; and (3) developing a standalone tool that runs on any platform. Case studies demonstrated the effectiveness of these…

Four experiments involving 180 undergraduates evaluated the effectiveness of computer graphics in improving estimates for algebra word problems. Variations in the simulation resulted in successful and unsuccessful programs as measured by the frequency with which students improved their estimates. Quality of feedback to students while learning is…

Considers several applications of microcomputer technology to instructional feedback in communication training. Describes how this technology is advantageous in the delivery of immediate, simultaneous, and delayed instructional comments in traditional performance courses. Discusses the linking of video and computer technology to provide…

Results are reported from a study designed to determine whether computer-based teaching simulation could influence short- and long-term skill acquisition in 61 preservice teachers. Two factors (task realism and clear, immediate post-teaching feedback) are identified as significant contributors to the simulation's training success. (IAH)

A microcomputer-based simulation, developed to promote preservice elementary school teachers' acquisition of fundamental feedback, time-management, and behavior-management skills through powerful reinforcement, prompting, and feedback training aids, was proven successful in several applications involving entry-level education students. (Author/CB)

Reports the results of research on effects of detailed feedback on problem solving within a computer-based simulation. Participants were 54 undergraduate students. Results indicated highest performance was associated with feedback based on an expert model supplemented with provided textual commentary, suggesting that under some circumstances…

Compares results of giving undergraduate students actual instructor feedback, computer-simulated instructor feedback, or no feedback. There were advantages to giving actual instructor-supplied feedback for exam performance, in-class responsiveness, and attitudes toward the instructor and other students. (JMV)

Describes the style of design of computer simulations developed by Computer Assisted Teaching Unit at Queen Mary College with reference to user interface, input and initialization, input data vetting, effective display screen use, graphical results presentation, and need for hard copy. Procedures and problems relating to academic involvement are…

In the late 1960s and early 1970s a considerable amount of research was conducted on methods for authoring and structuring instructional materials by researchers who did not, at that time, have access to the existing delivery systems necessary to fully implement their ideas. One of these methodologies is Structural Communications, developed by…

Describes a study that examined the accuracy and type of preservice teacher feedback to computer-simulated pupils. Accurate and inaccurate feedback when focusing on the accomplishments and deficiencies of the simulated pupils is examined, and patterns linking teachers' assessment of pupil performance with feedback during lesson interactions are…

Explores how users interact and learn during computer-based simulations given graphical and textual forms of feedback. Graduate students were randomly assigned computer simulations with graphical feedback, textual feedback, or graphical plus textual feedback. Findings indicate that graphical feedback provides experiential learning, but that these…

The purpose of this study was to explore how adult users interact and learn during a computer-based simulation given visual and verbal forms of feedback coupled with embedded elaborations of the content. A total of 52 college students interacted with a computer-based simulation of Newton's laws of motion in which they had control over the motion…

Examines factors that should be considered in designing an independent study undergraduate library skills course using computer-assisted instruction based on experiences at the University of Minnesota, Saint Paul. Highlights include the use of HyperCard, revising modules, interaction, simulations, student attitudes, lack of instructor feedback,…

Describes methods for using videodisc technology in training human service professionals for use in college curriculums or for inservice education. Methods explained include videotaping from the learner's point of view, using a Simulation System Trainer, and a programing technique that saves learner responses for later evaluation. (10 references)…

Discussion of the evaluation of courseware focuses on a study conducted to evaluate the Health and Fitness Assessment (HAFA) program, which was designed to elicit problem solving skills to assess health and fitness parameters and develop exercise prescriptions. Protocol analysis is described and the analysis of interpretive statements is…