Using computer simulation, parametric analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was compared to ANCOVA with data transformed using ranks, in terms of proportion of Type I errors and statistical power. Results indicated that parametric ANCOVA was robust to violations of either normality or homoscedasticity, but practiced significant power differences favored…

One way in which a computer simulation can convince students of the validity of formulas for the density and distributive functions of the sum of two variables is described. Four computer program listings are included. (MNS)

This paper develops and applies three nonparametric comparisons of the shapes of two item characteristic surfaces: (1) proportional latent odds; (2) uniform relative difficulty; and (3) item sensitivity. A method is presented for comparing the relative shapes of two item characteristic curves in two examinee populations who were administered an…

Recounts a high school teacher's experiences in simulating the Constitutional Convention of the United States. Includes part of the script used which the students designed. (JDH)

Describes two teaching simulations which can be used to introduce students to problems encountered in field research. The first simulation deals with gaining access to a research setting, while the second concerns some ethical difficulties which may potentially confront a field researcher. A number of reasons for using simulations in preference to…

Data were simulated to conform to covariance patterns taken from personnel selection literature. Incomplete data matrices were treated by four methods. Treated matrices were subjected to multiple regression analyses. Resulting regression equations were compared to equations from original, complete data. Results supported using covariate…

Presents a situation by response model that enables trainers to organize and simplify the planning, training, and application of making appropriate response choices. The discussion covers the possible uses of the model and the necessary steps involved in the creation of the model. (CLB)

Two studies (N=56) assessed an instruction program designed to teach elementary school children a complex computer-programming skill--how to debug LOGO graphics and listing-processing programs. The use of a precise computer simulation model proved to be the crux of the instructional model's success. (TJH)

A simple probabilistic model for unfolding data collected by a direct response design in which responses were scored dichotomously was applied to the measurement of attitudes toward capital punishment. Responses conformed to the unfolding mechanism. Scale values of the statements were statistically equivalent to those of Thurstone's methods. (SLD)

The ecological knowledge of university students was analyzed under psychological and educational aspects via a computer simulation, an environmental game consisting of a variant of the Commons Dilemma, and a computerized text base on an actual environmental problem. Conditions impairing acquisition and use of ecological knowledge were discovered.…

Describes how a computer simulation research method can be used for studying distance education systems. Topics discussed include systems research in distance education; a technique of model development using the System Dynamics approach and DYNAMO simulation language; and a computer simulation of a prototype model. (18 references) (LRW)

The Simulation Game is proposed as a means of sensitizing professionals to problems and dilemmas of key team members (social workers, nurses, health educators, physicians, and clinical psychologists) in geriatric health care. The game involves role playing from cards which present difficult issues and cases in such care. (CB)

Discusses how interactive video can be used as a training tool for process operators. Highlights include instructional features of interactive video, random access and branching capabilities, examples of training for operators of automated processes, simulation and interactive video, designing interactive video programs, and suggestions for…

Reports on the software that aids the development of experiments and simulations. Explores pedagogical and research applications as well as the general technical structure of the software. (Author/BSR)

This paper describes a rationale for the construction and use of a simple consistency model of the Zimbabwean economy that incorporates an input-output matrix. The model is designed to investigate alternative industrial strategies and their consequences for the balance of payments, consumption, and overall gross domestic product growth for a…