This high school chemistry resource is an on-screen chemistry lab. In the program, students can experiment with a huge range of chemicals, choosing the form, quantity and concentrations. Dangerous or difficult experiments can be investigated safely and easily. A vast range of equipment can be set up, and complex simulations can be put together and…

Discusses the use of computers for nine different tasks in biological education: information retrieval, data accumulation, data analysis, simulation and systems analysis, decision making, experimental control, course review, computer-managed instruction, and word processing. (PEB)

Describes 10 computer programs (available from authors), including graphics display of molecular structure, cyclohexane stereo chemistry, calculation of thermodynamics properties of chemical reactions, and others. Also described graphical display of chemical interactive programs using a programmable calculator and discusses distribution of…

Points out the value of using educational games as an instructional strategy and discusses different game formats using science examples. Identifies general characteristics of simulation games and presents as an example "Little Lake," a role playing game for grades 7-12 on population growth. (DC)

Discusses current uses of computers in United Kingdom schools, specifically in biology, chemistry, economics, geography, and physics classrooms. Suggests reasons why teachers are using computers and describes their application for simulations; construction, evaluation, and modification of models; and for academic games. (DS)

A simulation game was used in an attempt to change undergraduates' behavior and attitudes toward energy conservation. Social influence was found to be correlated significantly with experimental treatment. Participants showed an increase in favorable attitudes toward activism and political efficacy, and exhibited a greater likelihood of taking…

Two methods of assessing student learning of a hands-on instructional unit are compared. One method involves manipulation of concrete materials, and the other method involves manipulation of icons on a computer to solve an electric circuits problem. Sixth-grade students in an inquiry-based science program completed both assignments. (LZ)

Describes a project that uses a computer and a dot matrix printer to simulate the holographic recording process of simple object structures. The process' four steps are (1) superposition of waves; (2) representing the superposition of a plane reference wave on the monitor screen; (3) photographic reduction of the images; and (4) reconstruction of…

Utilizes a quasiexperimental design to examine the impact of microcomputer simulations on environmental problem solving by community college students. The experimental group of students (n=34) showed a highly significant improvement in problem-solving skills after being exposed to three simulation models that focused on lake pollution analysis,…

Information on student learning in terms of amount and efficiency when using interactive video instead of traditional laboratory methods as well as questions on the use of live animals for instruction is provided. The methods, results, discussion, and summary are included. (KR)

Google Earth is a free online software that provides a virtual view of Earth. Using Google Earth, students can view Earth by hovering over features and locations they preselect or by serendipitously exploring locations that catch their fascination. Going beyond hovering, they can swoop forward and even tilt images to make more detailed…

Wildlife is often described as one of Alaska's most important and valuable resources. Helping wildlife can take many forms. This document contains the directions and parts of two games for use with the "Alaska Wildlife Week" materials. The games "Brant for the Future", a simulation of bird and human interactions in the Pacific…

Killing animals for classroom dissection causes animal suffering, cheapens the value of life, and depletes wild animal populations, yet it remains commonplace. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) addresses the issue in this information packet which includes a fact sheet and three resource lists "on Dissection." The fact sheet discusses…

Research of the biology component of the Teacher Assessment Project (BioTAP) was conducted to explore the feasibility of using performance-based assessments to evaluate high school biology teachers. Three modes of performance-based assessment were employed: portfolios, portfolio-based simulations, and simulation exercises. Fifteen high school…

This study examined learning by individuals and groups in a computer environment. Individual interactivity as a function of group size was investigated by focusing on various modes of interaction available to students while they completed activities using a computer. The activities, which involved manipulation of pictures of batteries, bulbs, and…