Computational modeling and thinking skill sets were previously relegated to computer scientists and programmers. As a result, computational tools are largely unfamiliar to K-12 science teachers and students. Using Mathematical and Computational Thinking and Developing and Using Models were included in the "Next Generation Science…

Courses: Theories of Organizational Communication; Communication Theory. Theories of Organizational Communication; Communication Theory. Objectives: The proposed activity utilizes a digitally interactive global positioning system--based augmented reality game to help students (a) gain a richer learning experience through immersion and engagement…

Courses: Crisis Communication, Crisis and Issue Management, Writing for Public Relations, Public Relations Capstone. Objective: This unit activity refines traditional simulation activities used in crisis communication education. By partnering with crisis management professionals and developing localized, multi-stage scenarios grounded in the…

In the criminal justice system, defendants accused of a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Statistical inference in any context is built on an analogous principle: The null hypothesis--often a hypothesis of "no difference" or "no effect"--is presumed true unless there is sufficient evidence against it. In this…

Two articles are presented in this column. "Life in an Auto Factory: Simulating how Labor and Management Interact" by Eric B. Freedman describes a classroom simulation of management and labor relations in an auto factory. Classroom handouts are included. The next article, "Women of Action and County Names: Mary Musgrove County--Why…

Despite the growing number of books designed to radically reconsider the educational value of video games as powerful learning tools, there are very few practical guidelines conveniently available for prospective history and social studies teachers who actually want to use these teaching and learning tools in their classes. As the games and…

An inexpensive and equipment free approach to teaching the technical aspects of DNA sequencing. The activity described requires an instructor with a familiarity of DNA sequencing technology but provides a straight forward method of teaching the technical aspects of sequencing in the absence of expensive sequencing equipment. The final sequence…

It is not common to introduce current astronomy in school lessons. This article presents a set of experiments about gravitational lenses. It is normal to simulate them by means of computers, but it is very simple to simulate similar effects using a drinking glass full of liquid or using only the glass base. These are, of course, cheap and easy…

The aim of this activity is to immerse students in a simulated situation where they are enticed to make snap judgments about strangers, demonstrating that they can and easily do, and then motivate them to critically reflect on the consequences that these presumptions have on effective interpersonal communication. This activity allows students to…

Two activities are described which simulate for educators, papraprofessionals, parents, and students, learning problems encountered by students with special educational needs. The activities, modifications of Simon Says and Around the World, emphasize auditory processing skills and mental mathematical computations. (CL)

Suggestions for possible homework assignments involving physical education activities and a list of simulated games manufacturers are provided. (LH)

An investigative activity dealing with where to pitch a tent at a campsite is described. (MNS)

In this teacher developed simulation, secondary students, in the roles of justices and attorneys, bring to trial a selection of cases adjudicated by the U.S. Supreme Court. (RM)

Presents details for a simulation game for a secondary social studies unit on immigration. Depending on the card a student holds, he may be allowed into the land of milk and honey, which in this game consists of graham crackers and milk. Discussion questions are included. (KC)

Suggests how simulation games can be used in the classroom to help students understand situations such as politics, war, international relations, and social activities. Explains how to design a simulation game and presents teacher and student instructions for a game entitled "The Battle of Bunker Hill." (DB)