This study examined issues in supporting middle school teachers to become more learner centered when implementing computer-based, workplace simulations in their classrooms. Focuses on a participant observation study of two teachers to develop and evolve a framework for professional development that included reflective skills and proximal goals.…

Simulations demonstrate the effects of correlated errors on the person-by-occasion design in which the confounding effect of equal time intervals results in correlated error terms in the linear model. Two specific error correlation structures were examined. Conditions under which underestimation and overestimation occur are discussed. (SLD)

High school students (92 females, 127 males) using Krumboltz Job Experience Kits (occupational simulations) experienced 6 diverse jobs in random order and recorded reactions on the Perceived Congruency Questionnaire. Results supported Holland's hexagonal model, indicating that different personality types react to different jobs in accord with the…

Presents several theoretical solutions to a geometry problem involving circles and probability. Includes simulation procedures to estimate the solutions. (MKR)

The Rasch Poisson counts model is a latent trait model for the situation in which "K" tests are administered to "N" examinees and the test score is a count (repeated number of some event). A mixed model is presented that applies the EM algorithm and that can allow for missing data. (SLD)

Hypothesizes that the construction of visual models, resolution of these visual models with numeric models and, in many cases, rejection of commitments such as the belief in one true velocity, are necessary for students to form integrated mental models of relative motion events. Studies high school students' relative motion problem solving.…

Used Monte Carlo simulation to compare the relative measurement efficiency of polytomous modeling and dichotomous modeling under different scoring schemes and termination criteria. Results suggest that polytomous computerized adaptive testing (CAT) yields marginal gains over dichotomous CAT when termination criteria are more stringent. Discusses…

Developed a new classification method for the logistic regression (LR) procedure for differential item functioning (DIF) based on methods used in the Simultaneous Item Bias test and conducted a simulation study to determine if the effect size measure affects the Type I error and power rates for the LR DIF procedure. Results show that inclusion of…

In a simulation, a student team studied a real factory system and tested three work configurations. The partnership benefitted students and business, but the project underscored the need for careful coordination, assistance from company management and instructors, and a longer time frame than a semester. (SK)

Investigates the effects of using molecular modeling on students' spatial ability, understanding of new concepts related to geometric and symbolic representations, and perception of the model concept. (Author/CCM)

Evaluates first-year college students' perceptions of molecular modeling. Examines the effectiveness, integration with course content, interests, benefits, advantages, and disadvantages of molecular modeling. (Author/CCM)

Reports on the increasing use of virtual-reality devices at Pennsylvania State University's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and other institutions that allow medical residents to practice their skills in simulated operations. Notes that both students and professors are enthusiastic about the simulations but that the necessary technology and…

Decribes a variation on Bingo that provides a non-routine probability investigation through which students develop concepts of chance. (Author/CCM)

Experiments in an accelerating frame are hard to perform. Illustrates how simple computer software allows sufficiently rapid and accurate measurements to be made on an arrangement of weights and pulleys known as Atwood's machine. (Author/CCM)

Discusses problems associated with organizational or technological change. Presents the results of learning experiments in experimentaria, rooms for experiments removed from the daily activities of an organization. Concludes that experimentaria seem to create a higher level of self-respect and respect for others' skills and knowledge as well as a…