A simulation game for a Spanish classroom provided each team with a fictitious profile of a Spanish-speaking person. Students made decisions for the characters regarding school, career, leisure activities and family. Slides and films on Spanish-Americans were shown. (CHK)

Discusses the use of experimental simulation by digital computer as a laboratory teaching tool in a mechanical engineering course on measurements. (MLH)

Presents the methodology and findings of an experimental project to determine the viability of computer assisted as opposed to more traditional methods of instruction for teaching one phase of automotive troubleshooting. (Editor)

Discusses class activities that create artificial environments to facilitate students' learning about the cultural life of the country whose language they are studying, in this case, Spanish. Such activities include taking pictures of fictional wedding parties, using current Mexican newspapers to shop for the bride and groom, and attendance at the…

Explores the use of simulations as a teaching method for gifted students. Identifies positive effects of simulations and distinguishes different types. Notes disadvantages related to time, money, and experience as are unique features of the teacher's role in this approach to instruction. Lists guidelines for choosing a model and deciding on a…

Reports on the findings of a study designed to develop three-dimensional virtual reality technology (VRT) learning programs for middle school students and evaluate the program's educational value. Focuses on the topic of structure and function of the eye. Concludes that VRT simulations allow comfortable interaction with computers and increase the…

Described is an exercise which uses inexpensive and easy-to-make materials to demonstrate the basic fundamentals of heredity. Discusses two approaches using a hypothetical insert to demonstrate inheritance, mitosis, meiosis, and genotypic and phenotypic frequencies. (CW)

Enhancing technical training requires determination to search for creative ways to simulate the real world of work. Dry theory is turned into experiential learning and materials are linked to the performance to which it relates. This type of learning is a powerful vehicle for motivating learners to apply what has been learned. (Author/JOW)

Describes instructor-developed exercises for Hypercard stacks on news gathering simulations and stylebook quizzes, as well as a practical use for Hypercard in the "real world." (MS)

Results of research based on observations of four- and five-year-olds indicate that in pretend play, children acted more mature, played together more, and were more social than in nonpretend settings. Suggestions are offered for classroom activities, for preschool through middle school, that incorporate pretend play. (IAH)

Discusses the "Exercise in Hard Choices," a simulation published by the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB), that requires students to make decisions on some of the most significant and controversial budget options facing the U.S. Congress and president. Reports on the simulation's classroom success, stating that it…

Discusses a case study of a project created for the U.S. Air Force, Air Combat Command, in which mental models were taught, reinforced, and assessed as the foundation for instruction. Preliminary data for 183 students reflected a 93% mastery level and a 79% cumulative gain in students' ability to troubleshoot difficult problems. (Author/AEF)

Describes a simulation exercise designed to help students understand the objections of U.S. colonists to the Stamp Act and other taxes. Includes a sample handout, instructions for the teacher in carrying out the simulation, and questions to compare students' and colonists' about feelings being assessed fees unfairly. (DK)

Simulations allow active student participation in learning. In assigned character roles, students experience real-life situations, using their knowledge and skill to experiment in new situations. Simulations promote advanced thinking and problem solving across subject areas. Teachers must be facilitator, organizers, and managers of learning…

A mechanical analogy between the microscopic motion of a charged carrier in an ordinary resistor and the macroscopic motion of a ball falling along a slanted board covered with a lattice of nails is introduced. The Drude model is also introduced to include the case of inelastic collisions. Computer simulation of the motion is described. (KR)