Develops a conceptual and analytic framework for rural sociologists to document program results and consequences and to aid policy and program decisions. Addresses program/policy evaluation from perspectives of structural analysis, control programming, and simulation. Emphasizes dynamic, nonrecursive nature of evaluation processes. (LFL)

This 10-year literature update of Greenlaw and Wyman's review of teaching effectiveness of collegiate-level business games reviews research on top-management or functionally integrated games and functional games which emphasize specific business operations areas. Conclusions are drawn on business gaming's teaching effectiveness, and observations…

A computer program developed at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine presents simulated patient cases and then scores participants' clinical problem-solving in the cases by comparing their performances with those of faculty members. The validity and reliability of this evaluation system was investigated. (Author/MLW)

Offers a way of teaching quantitative thinking through a software program called, "Hot Dog Stand." This simulation provides students with practice in planning expenses, in computing problems, and in dealing with a situation in which outcomes depend on random events. Also includes suggestions for computer use during non-scheduled time. (ML)

Four female mildly mentally retarded subjects (ages 17-21) were trained individually in a simulated bank setting at their school. After training, subjects were able to generalize newly trained skills to real community settings though some additional in-vivo training was required for perfect performance. (Author/DB)

Described is a unit of study that helps psychology students develop job-entry skills. The students are given an overall perspective of the job application process, including the filling out of sample application forms, the construction of resumes, and the securing of references. Role playing and simulation are used. (RM)

This simulation helps students in grades four to eight see their planet as one environment with limited resources shared by all. Students learn that the earth is a large system comprised of small systems, that systems are interdependent and often have irreplaceable parts, and that resources are not equally divided among countries. (RM)

Reviews literature on computer-based training in industry over 20 years. Studies reviewed are organized by training application into three groups--basic computer-assisted instruction systems, supplemented computer-assisted instruction with simulation and graphics modes, and simulators. Time savings, user attitudes, cost savings, and performance…

Elements of communicative language instruction theories that can be realized with computers are identified; limitations are discussed; and the place and acceptability of computerized exercises within a communicative language learning environment are examined. (MSE)

A simulation of the Lewis and Clark expedition helps high school students compare what the area of the journey was like in the 1880s and what it is like today and examine the Indians from the perspective of those who first encountered them. The simulation is described. (RM)

Two teaching formats--lecture and case presentation--were compared to determine which is more effective in continuing medical education. Physicians attending case presentation sessions were more likely to increase their cognitive knowledge, but retention was only slightly higher than in the lecture group. (Author/MLW)

Describes a situation-centered approach to second language acquisition and provides examples of class activities, assignments, and exams. (EKN)

Presents review of recent and current work in the United Kingdom on developing computer assisted learning aids (tape-slide presentations, teaching packages, simulations and emulations of commercial retrieval services) for the teaching of online information retrieval at library schools. Seventeen references are cited. (EJS)

Presents a simulation called "Food For Thought" which permits teachers (and ultimately their students) to draw conclusions about population issues. The simulation involves studying six continents by choosing ambassadors and citizens, looking at land areas and use, and considering protein consumption. (BC)

Describes a continuing education program for nurses which taught them to identify and deal with patient care problems. Tables of workshop content are provided. (TA)