Ten computer simulations for the Apple II are described. Subject areas of programs include: population dynamics, plant competition, enzyme kinetics, evolution and natural selection, genetic mapping, ammonia synthesis, reaction kinetics, wave interference/diffraction, satellite orbits, and particle scattering. (JN)

A variety of teaching methods for interpersonal skills training are suggested and explained, including role playing, simulated interviews, stimulus vignettes, videotaping, and clinic experience discussions. Other suggestions for implementation of these methods address sequence, grading, and faculty development. (MSE)

Presents a general framework for human factors considerations in training and illustrates the relationship between human factors and computer-based training (CBT) research by descriptions of studies dealing with six major aspects of the CBT interface: training administration, management, instructional design and development, testing and…

Seven articles in this issue focus on the use of realia in instruction. Authors discuss reasons why realia effectively motivate students and enhance learning; the place of realia in supervised occupational experience programs; the importance of real-life experiences to vocational agriculture; and student teaching as a reality experience. (SK)

Describes a learning experience in the labor relations unit of the distributive education course at Bristol (Rhode Island) High School, in which students negotiate a "contract of course requirements" for the school year in the form of a labor-management agreement after simulated collective bargaining. A sample contract is included. (MF)

The primary objective of a training program based within an internal medicine department at the University of Texas Medical Branch was to increase the interviewing skills of medicine residents, especially regarding the psychosocial aspects of patients. The program, evaluation methods, and results are described. (JMD)

Colleges must turn to long-range enrollment planning to ensure proper academic and fiscal management. The Higher Education Finance Research Institute, with the College Board, has developed a model that will allow colleges to test the current scale and scope of their programs against regional projections of their enrollment potential during the…

The accuracy of estimation of the subjects' latent ability maintained by tailoring for each testee the order of item presentation and the border of item dichotomization was compared to the information provided by the original graded test items. (RC)

Describes a class where students learn microeconomics from the perspective of a new business owner. This approach requires reordering the typical sequence of material and introducing a market simulation exercise. Includes a sample business plan, course outline, and data tables. (MJP)

A patient instructor (PI) program to improve dental students' data-gathering and interpersonal skills had each third-year student in 2 consecutive classes (n=60, n=72) interview 4 patient instructors during a rotation. Each PI portrayed one of six scenarios, assessed students on content knowledge and clinical and interview skills, and provided…

Presents a structural supply/demand model for enrollment places in parochial schools and uses it to evaluate alternative voucher policy designs. Uses the model's estimated parameters to simulate effects of differently sized and targeted vouchers on public and private school attendance, districts' fiscal status, and public educational costs.…

Reviewed are 41 software packages. Many topic areas are covered. A brief synopsis, grade levels, hardware requirements, and approximate cost are included. A list of 23 software producers is included. (CW)

Describes a project in which students from 11 countries took part in an Arab-Israeli Conflict simulation-- an interactive communication simulation that immersed students in the complex dynamics of international reality. The project is a pilot program from the Region of Peel School Board, Ontario. Example of simulation is appended. (SLM)

Calls for more and better teaching about the Vietnam War in secondary schools and colleges. Offers approaches to teaching about the War and presents questions designed to stimulate students' thinking. Describes the use of simulations. States that the discussion of controversial issues makes class more stimulating for both student and teacher. (KO)

Faculty from 5 New England medical schools developed 36 patient cases representing a variety of common ambulatory-care problems. Students were tested by interacting with 16 different standardized patients, who were nonphysicians trained to accurately and consistently portray a patient in a simulated clinical setting. (Author/MLW)