This article identifies three uses of educational technology and evaluates their potential to change curricula and pedagogic strategies. The article is in four parts, with the first outlining a temporal model of change and discussing educators' expectations of continuities and discontinuities in practice. In order to distinguish minor…

Lifelike, interactive digital characters, serving as mentors and role-playing actors, have been shown to significantly improve learner motivation and retention. However, the cost of modeling such characters, authoring and editing their interactions, and delivering them over limited-bandwidth connections can be prohibitive. This paper describes a…

The significant increase of English Language Learners (ELLs) in the United States raises complex questions about how to provide these students with access to high quality education that can improve both their content knowledge of school subjects and their English proficiency, particularly their academic English proficiency. The development of…

Previous research has shown that computer-based tasks can motivate people with autism and encourage learning. As a computer-based medium, Virtual Environments (VEs) offer a potentially useful tool for social skills training for people with autistic spectrum disorders (ASDs). However, there are some concerns over whether people with ASDs can…

Designed to provide teacher-trainees with practice before entering a real classroom, a microcomputer-based simulation of classroom interaction became a key component in the curriculum of two introductory methods courses offered at the University of Virginia. Twenty-two participants used IBM-PC equipment to complete two skill modules. Each module…

Evaluates MUSICSHAPES, a graphic music construction software program which manipulates sound in terms of pitch, rhythm, timbre, and sequence to help students create complex synthesizer compositions. Intended for ages eight to adult, the program utilizes Apple II computers and additional hardware. Discusses how MUSICSHAPES can be used effectively…

Eighteen undergraduates participated in two consecutive microcomputer simulation sessions, receiving specific information about classroom management between sessions. Among results were a significant increase in mean number of appropriate management responses made to computer-generated student talkouts and a significant decrease in amount of time…

Presents sports-oriented examples (cricket and football) in which Monte Carlo methods are used on microcomputers to teach probability concepts. Both examples include computer programs (with listings) which utilize the microcomputer's random number generator. Instructional strategies, with further challenges to help students understand the role of…

Proposes use of computer simulations to help students build reading comprehension skills, and describes an existing simulation which requires readers to interact with text to accomplish some purpose. Differences between teaching reading skills with simulations and the way they are traditionally taught, and future potential of reading simulations…

This activity consists of two problem situations, each illustrating how a computer can be used as a tool to assist students in solving mathematical problems. In one, numerous calculations are performed by the computer; the second uses a Monte Carlo model to simulate a physical action. (MNS)

Leading-edge technologies, integrated with emerging educational methodologies, make the Advanced Learning Environment (ALE) model cost effective and efficient for learning. The ALE integrates virtual reality and other enabling technologies such as natural language processing, animation, video, courseware, sound, projection, CD-ROM, and distance…

Discusses a computer simulation designed as an educational tool for students to observe predator-prey oscillations and experimentally investigate how changes in life histories affect predator and prey densities. Provides hands-on interaction with such theories and with mathematical models. Available to any instructor for curriculum use. (AIM)

Explores the rationale for computer simulations, describes a developmental approach to learning spreadsheet applications, discusses dilemmas posed in teaching and learning through simulations, and presents conclusions about using simulation for teaching school-finance and business courses and for professional growth. (Five references) (LMI)

Uses the case study approach to introduce students to the relationship between science and society. Develops an awareness of ethics, specifically on DNA research, through computer simulations and Internet conferencing. (Contains 20 references.) (YDS)

Describes the Lateblight computer simulation implemented in the general biology laboratory and science methods course for elementary teachers to reinforce the processes of science and allow students to engage, explore, explain, elaborate, and evaluate the methods of building concepts in science. (Author/KHR)