Five methods for testing the hypothesis of independence between two sets of variates were compared through simulation. Results indicate that two new methods, based on robust measures reflecting the linear association between two random variables, provide reasonably accurate control over Type I errors. Drawbacks to rank-based methods are discussed.…

This article describes a simulation activity in which students with deafness were "sold" and treated as slaves for half a day. Evaluation indicated that the "slaves" developed deeply negative feelings about slavery as they experienced the physical labor and personal humiliation involved in slavery, and "masters" felt uncomfortable treating…

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)

Reviews development of standardized case simulations and treatment planning criteria by two nationwide panels of interdisciplinary mental health experts. Notes that simulations show promise as performance-based assessments of clinical judgment across profession, theoretical orientation, and other therapist variables. Discusses application of…

A method of comparing one-step M-estimates of location for heavy tailed distributions is proposed and investigated. Simulations indicate that the new procedure provides good control over Type I errors and has more power than do some other methods for dealing with heavy tailed distributions. (SLD)

In artificial life research, scientists use the principles of evolution to develop complex behaviors from simple elements. By creating lifelike processes, they are trying to understand real organisms and explore possibilities for life in other circumstances. Techniques used are diverse, including biological testing, robotics, and computer…

Case means and case failures in performance-based medical student evaluations were examined to evaluate the consistency of ratings made by two or more standardized patients (SPs) simulating the same case. Results demonstrate a need for caution in interpreting scores obtained from a case checklist completed by multiple SPs. (Author/MSE)

Describes a role-play exercise that offers an experiential means to teach counseling students about process consultation. Claims exercise provides an experiential framework for understanding the role of the consultant but also illustrates the complexity of interpersonal dynamics within an existing organization. (ABL)

This Monte Carlo simulation studied the relative power of 8 tests for sphericity in randomized block designs where sample size was small (10, 15, 20, and 30) and population covariance matrices of dimension-to-sample size ratio approached 1.0. The locally best invariant test demonstrated substantial power to detect departures from sphericity. (SLD)

The partial credit model with a varying slope parameter is developed and called the generalized partial credit model (GPCM). Analysis results for simulated data by this and other polytomous item-response models demonstrate that the rating formulation of the GPCM is adaptable to the analysis of polytomous item responses. (SLD)

A study using five Southern Illinois University senior medical school classes (n=350 students) investigated whether having a standardized patient simulate a case repeatedly in postclerkship medical student evaluation affects the measure's reliability. Results suggest that repeated simulation had little or no effect on intercase reliability of…

Considers the nature of learning and examines the role of simulations and games in promoting learning. Topics discussed include relating general systems theory to the process of learning; Kolb's model of experiential learning; the debriefing process in games and simulations; and the role of the teacher. (13 references) (LRW)

Used simulations of computerized adaptive tests to evaluate results yielded by four commonly used ability estimation methods: maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) and three Bayesian approaches. Results show clear distinctions between MLE and Bayesian methods. (SLD)

Contrasts "mental models" used by automated scoring for the simulation division of the computerized Architect Registration Examination with those used by experienced human graders for 3,613 candidate solutions. Discusses differences in the models used and the potential of automated scoring to enhance the validity evidence of scores. (SLD)

This introduction to a special issue on play and simulation/gaming examines the distinction often made between children's play and adult gaming. It illustrates the diversity of play activities and the pedagogical uses of gaming, and demonstrates that these two fields of reflection have everything to gain through mutual enrichment. (AEF)