In order to build robust natural language processing systems that can detect and recover from miscommunication, the investigation of how people communicate and how they recover from problems in communication described in this artificial intelligence report focused on reference problems which a listener may have in determining what or whom a…

An overview of the current status of the videodisc industry and observations on future directions for videodisc technology are presented in this paper. Information was drawn from interviews with presenters at the 1984 Nebraska Videodisc Symposium and the February 1985 Society for Applied Technology Conference, discussions with hardware…

Using the Oklahoma State University (OSU) computerized community simulation model, extension professionals can provide local decision makers with information derived from an impact model that is dynamic, community specific, and easy to adapt to different communities. The four main sections of the OSU model are an economic account, a capital…

This report presents examples of Rand's current research in the information sciences and illustrates the application of information science tools to specific policy studies. The projects discussed depict Rand's success with using corporate seed money to bridge the gap between the research and development of new information science tools and…

There are many problems involved in upgrading scientific literacy in high schools: poorly qualified teachers, the lack of good instructional materials, and economic and academic disadvantages all contribute to the problem. This document describes a project designed to increase the opportunities available to the high school science student to…

There is a serious risk that the extra burden of adding instruction about microcomputers and software to regular elementary school curricula may turn off both teachers and students to the potential that microcomputers have for improving learning. To counter this risk, microcomputers should be integrated into the regular instructional program of…

Human engineering guidelines for the design of instructor/operator stations (IOSs) for aircrew training devices are provided in this handbook. These guidelines specify the preferred configuration of IOS equipment across the range of the anticipated user sizes and performance capabilities. The guidelines are consolidated from various human…

The paper discusses a number of issues concerning the practical usefulness of cognitive psychology research, and presents a case study of pilot training methods to illustrate a model of research processes that produces outcomes which contribute to both basic and applied research goals. Research studies are described as varying in the degree to…

Student achievement, cost, rural context, and qualitative differences relative to small/rural schools were analyzed in Alberta to address the choice between small elementary school construction and school consolidation with student busing. Studies in both the United States and Canada have found no consistant significant differences in student…

Effective evaluation of educational software is a key issue for successful introduction of advanced tools in the curriculum. This paper details to developing and evaluating a tool for computer assisted learning of science laboratory courses. The process was based on the generic instructional system design model. Various categories of educational…

This discussion of teaching science as a design activity emphasizes open-ended problem solving. Highlights include the relationship between teachers and students; hypotheses as solutions; and descriptions of four microworlds, or computer simulations, in chemistry, geography, physiology, and genetics which use graphic interfaces. (LRW)

Describes three studies which explored the use of computer assisted instruction with mildly handicapped secondary school students. Comparisons with non-handicapped students are made in vocabulary development, using drill and practice; concept instruction in elementary logic, using a tutorial approach; and problem solving in health education, using…

Contains abstracts of presented papers which deal with teaching materials and methods in physiology. Includes papers on preconceptual notions in physiology, somatosensory activity recorded in the dorsal root ganglion of the bull frog, and the use of the Apple Macintosh microcomputer in teaching human anatomy and physiology. (TW)

This first of two articles presents eight examples of what software infusion (SI) looks like in actual practice in elementary, middle, and high school classrooms and learning laboratories. An analysis of SI characteristics demonstrated in the examples is presented to bring the definition of SI into focus. (MBR)

Discusses the use of simulations to study complex real-life systems in engineering. Describes some of the limitations of using simulations. Identifies some situations in which computer simulations are practical and useful tools for the design, analysis, and evaluation of systems. (TW)