How the microcomputer can be used to reinforce basic statistical concepts and techniques is presented. The methods for achieving this include specific statistical problems, projects, games, and simulations for use with microcomputers. (MNS)

Presents some arguments for new training approaches to teaching people how to play games based on the literature about how humans play games, how they acquire game-playing skills, and game-playing theory. An example of the role-reversal approach to training is presented with some experimental findings regarding its effectiveness. (MBR)

This simulation is intended to help secondary students better understand the workings of administrative agencies. The setting is an environmental controversy (preservation of a valley as a wilderness area or converting it to a recreation area); however, the general idea can be easily adapted to almost any functioning administrative agency. (RM)

This article presents a model of a pretechnical curriculum, which has as its focus the self-empowerment of the individual, and describes how this curriculum could be implemented in the schools. Discusses the three curriculum categories: generalizable skills, transition skills, and problem-solving skills. (CT)

Role-playing games and simulations offer revolutionary ways to learn and solve problems. Some games/simulations that can be used to explore and evaluate possible futures are described. The future of educational games is also discussed. (RM)

Describes instructional development process applied to the design, production, implementation, and evaluation of a computer simulation designed to provide troubleshooting practice for individuals who maintain and install large digital telephone switches. The major organizational benefits resulting from use of the simulation are discussed. (MBR)

In computer-based simulations, students must bring a wide range of relevant knowledge, skills, and abilities to bear jointly as they solve meaningful problems in a learning domain. To function effectively as an assessment, a simulation system must additionally be able to evoke and interpret observable evidence about targeted knowledge in a manner…

This report examines issues in the scale-up of assessment software from the Center for Research on Evaluation, Standards, and Student Testing (CRESST). "Scale-up" is used in a metaphorical sense, meaning adding new assessment tools to CRESST's assessment software. During the past several years, CRESST has been developing and evaluating a…

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…

Three probability problems designed to challenge students are presented: Liars and Diamonds, Heads Wins, and Random Walks. Other statistic problems are suggested that could involve computer simulations. (MNS)

Current training programs generally address technical skills needed for department administration, but generally do not treat interpersonal problem-solving skills. A method found effective is the use of trigger films and discussion. Simulated but realistic situations are presented that represent common staff problems and managerial tasks. (MSE)

The mathematics for a lunar shuttle landing simulation is discussed using equations, charts and tables. (MP)

A decision story is a brief scenario describing a health problem which might be faced in real life. Such topics as venereal disease, drug use, and nutrition can be explored by use of the decision-making model. The phases involved in processing the decision story strategy are described. (JN)

A theory is proposed of the processes which enable a subject to learn while solving a problem. One subject's protocol--including 224 steps and taking 90 minutes--is described. Adequacy of the mechanisms is guaranteed by a computer simulation of the processes in an adaptive production system. (Author/GDC)

This article describes and tests a theory of scientific discovery learning based on the Scientific Discovery as Dual Search (SDDS) model. A study of 22 university chemistry students determined that conditions for performing a search operation in hypothesis space include sufficient knowledge of the search operation and reasons for choosing a…