Describes a linguistic analysis computational system that responds to highly complex queries about morphosyntactic and semantic structures contained in large sets of language acquisition data by identifying, displaying, and analyzing sentences that meet the defined linguistic criteria. (30 references) (Author/CB)

In artificial life research, scientists use the principles of evolution to develop complex behaviors from simple elements. By creating lifelike processes, they are trying to understand real organisms and explore possibilities for life in other circumstances. Techniques used are diverse, including biological testing, robotics, and computer…

Case means and case failures in performance-based medical student evaluations were examined to evaluate the consistency of ratings made by two or more standardized patients (SPs) simulating the same case. Results demonstrate a need for caution in interpreting scores obtained from a case checklist completed by multiple SPs. (Author/MSE)

Smallest exact confidence intervals for the ability parameter of the Rasch model are derived and compared to the traditional asymptotically valid intervals based on Fisher information. Tables of exact confidence intervals, termed Clopper-Pearson intervals, can be drawn up with a computer program developed by K. Klauer. (SLD)

Six computer applications in education are word processing, computer-assisted instruction, computer-aided design, computer authoring systems, computer data systems, and computer storage. Computers may assist students with three learning stages: acquisition, transformation, and evaluation of information. Advances in computer programing, software,…

Using a Monte Carlo simulation, a bootstrap procedure was evaluated for setting a confidence interval on the unrestricted population correlation (rho) assuming various degrees of incomplete truncation on the predictor. Sample size was the most important factor in determining accuracy and stability. Sample size should be at least 50. (SLD)

Four groups of 24 undergraduates each received the following instruction on logic circuits: (1) lab, then readings; (2) computer simulation, then readings; (3) readings, then lab; and (4) readings, then simulation. Results showed that advance exposure to experiential activity (lab or simulation) aided the learning of unfamiliar technical material…

Describes a role-play exercise that offers an experiential means to teach counseling students about process consultation. Claims exercise provides an experiential framework for understanding the role of the consultant but also illustrates the complexity of interpersonal dynamics within an existing organization. (ABL)

This Monte Carlo simulation studied the relative power of 8 tests for sphericity in randomized block designs where sample size was small (10, 15, 20, and 30) and population covariance matrices of dimension-to-sample size ratio approached 1.0. The locally best invariant test demonstrated substantial power to detect departures from sphericity. (SLD)

The partial credit model with a varying slope parameter is developed and called the generalized partial credit model (GPCM). Analysis results for simulated data by this and other polytomous item-response models demonstrate that the rating formulation of the GPCM is adaptable to the analysis of polytomous item responses. (SLD)

D. W. Zimmerman argues that the interpretation by J. D. Gibbons and S. Chakraborti of recent simulation results and their recommendations are misleading and suggests use of an alternate test when homogeneity of variance and normality are violated. Gibbons and Chakraborti review their differences with Zimmerman's position. (SLD)

Developed Computerized Counseling Simulation, simulation of client-counselor interaction. Tested simulation on seven groups with varying degrees of counseling experience: counselors, predoctoral counseling interns, counseling students, first-year counseling students, student peer counselors, undergraduates, and noncounselors (total n=108). Interns…

The effect that collapsing ordered polytomous variable scales has on structural equation measurement model parameter estimates was examined. Four parameter estimation procedures were investigated in a Monte Carlo study. Collapsing categories in ordered polytomous variables had little effect when latent projection procedures were used. (SLD)

A study using five Southern Illinois University senior medical school classes (n=350 students) investigated whether having a standardized patient simulate a case repeatedly in postclerkship medical student evaluation affects the measure's reliability. Results suggest that repeated simulation had little or no effect on intercase reliability of…

Considers the nature of learning and examines the role of simulations and games in promoting learning. Topics discussed include relating general systems theory to the process of learning; Kolb's model of experiential learning; the debriefing process in games and simulations; and the role of the teacher. (13 references) (LRW)