Provides a step-by-step process for designing effective and interesting simulations. Explains and gives examples for the four steps: defining teaching goals, constructing the simulation, running the simulation, and debriefing. Asserts that simulations develop critical thinking and other skills. Examines possible means of assessment. (MJP)

Described are the use of case-method teaching, educational competitions, and interactive computer-graphic instructional software to teach structural engineering concepts at the freshman level. Details of the instructional software used and the bridge competition are provided. (CW)

Builds on a National Science Foundation (NSF) microcomputer based laboratory project to introduce system dynamics into the precollege setting. Focuses on providing students with powerful and investigatory theory building tools. Discusses developed hardware, software, and curriculum materials used to introduce model building and simulations into…

Describes the development of an interactive video system including history, cost, equipment needed, and copying of disks. Provides methodology for producing a program using several chemistry topics. Discusses current innovations such as touchscreens and interactive realism. (MVL)

Reports the design for a principles-before-details presentation of electronics for an instrumental analysis class. Uses computers for data collection and simulations. Requires one semester with two 2.5-hour periods and two lectures per week. Includes lab and lecture syllabi. (MVL)

Presents five computer programs: (1) Accurate Numerical Solutions of the One-Dimensional Schrodinger Equation; (2) NMR Simulation and Interactive Drill/Interpretation; (3) A Simple Computer Program for the Calculation of 13C-NMR Chemical Shifts; (4) Constants of 1:1 Complexes from NMR or Spectrophotometric Measurements; and (5) Saturation…

Maintains that little is written for elementary and middle school students about the World War II Japanese internment camps. Asserts that the issue can help teach about democratic principles and citizenship. Presents a role-playing dialog on the topic and includes recommended materials for students and teachers. (CFR)

Describes an educational project linking classrooms using telecommunications with a four-person bicycling team exploring Mayan ruins in Central America. Provides a historical overview of the Mayan civilization. Includes suggested activities and provides information on how to obtain lesson plans on the project. (CFR)

Describes a thematic curriculum unit in which elementary students simulate travel around the world and record their experiences using word processors and databases. Includes figures listing student directions and an actual student journal entry. Asserts that technology can heighten student motivation and improve knowledge about the world. (CFR)

Reports on a simulation used in intercultural communication in an English-as-a-Second-Language/English-as-a-Foreign-Language teacher education program. The simulation created an uncomfortable cultural atmosphere, similar to that in a foreign environment, and focused on helping the teachers in training recognize themselves as cultural beings whose…

Demonstrates the value of the case-method approach in physical education pedagogy classes for preservice physical education teachers; presents a sample case in a middle school and outlines the accompanying questions. Holds that the case-method approach can bridge the gap between theory and practice through class discussion. (SM)

Described is an introductory probability and statistics class focused on teaching the concepts of sampling and binomial distributions through a strategy based on teacher and student generated simulation using the Boxer computer language. The value of integrating programing with teaching subject matter is demonstrated, and sample student work is…

Contends that teaching U.S. history and law are inextricably intertwined. Presents nine instructional strategies and accompanying examples to illustrate effective instruction combining law-related education and history. Includes lists of recommended resources and a teacher's bibliography. (CFR)

Describes an exercise to develop interest and understanding about nuclear energy in which students make presentations regarding a proposal to build a hypothetical nuclear power plant. Students spend two weeks researching the topic; give testimony before a "Senate Energy Committee"; and vote on the proposal. Background information is…

Presents a lesson plan designed to create an understanding of the concepts of interdependence and cross-cultural communication. Students are divided into groups. Each group is given an envelope containing materials insufficient to complete their task (providing food, clothing, and shelter for the populace). They must negotiate with the other…