Describes a demonstration designed to help students better understand the response of plant and animal cells to hypotonic solutions. The demonstration uses a balloon inside a flexible, thin-walled cardboard box. Air going in corresponds to water entering by osmosis, and, like real cells, if stretched enough, the balloon will burst. (DH)

Role playing Congress provides high school American government students with a unique opportunity not only to learn the workings of the Congress, but also to be active participants in the learning process. Research studies have shown that students enjoy those classes in which they are actively participating. (RM)

Reviews the benefits of computer simulation in social studies. Provides a lesson plan for using Lincoln's Decision, a simulation by Educational Activities. (JDH)

This article proposes a method for testing equality of variances which exploits Pitman's idea and the computational power of simulations. Several advantages to this method are illustrated. A Monte Carlo study for several combinations of sample sizes and number of variables is presented. (Author/LMO)

Two issues central to the production of cognitive conflict in the computer environment are discussed. The first one focuses on the use of simulations versus real-world experiences, and the second is directed at the potential for incidental and spontaneous learning versus controlled learning with the computer. (CT)

Used a standardized simulation to identify problem-solving styles in mental health treatment planning tasks. Experienced counselors (N=34) and trainees (N=34) examined case files and wrote summaries and treatment plans for each case. Results showed problem-solving similarities for the outpatient case but differences for the inpatient case. (BH)

Explores the benefits and hazards of staging simulated news incidents in the classroom to teach journalism students the need to maintain a professional stance at all times. (HTH)

Describes a computer simulation of getting information for news stories by interviewing various sources that was presented at a journalism workshop on databases and software for journalism education. (HTH)

Describes a multiformat simulation game based on the theme of budgeting for food and its original development as a manual exercise for use with old age pensioners. The game's current versions, their uses, and target audiences are discussed along with how the exercise was made generally available in a do-it-yourself package. (Author/MBR)

Describes a computer program which plots electric field line plots. Includes program listing, sample diagrams produced on a BBC model B microcomputer (which could be produced on other microcomputers by modifying the program), and a discussion of the properties of field lines. (JN)

Describes the Pedagogical mode of instruction developed for the U.S. Army's Videodisc Interpersonal Skills Training and Assessment project, which utilizes standardized role playing simulation with immediate feedback after each decision point to teach leadership and counseling skills. Instructional features unique to interpersonal skills training…

Describes computer simulations that combine abstract and conceptual learning to help create an intense, content-rich learning opportunity grounded in experience and reality. Examines learning with intent, limitations of computers, features of a good simulation, and linking contextual and abstract learning. (CT)

Synthesizes several themes that are common to the other chapters in this sourcebook and suggests additional considerations for using experiential and simulation techniques. The author reminds readers that, while educators and practitioners need practical tools to do their work, the importance of theoretical models, which assist in translating…

Arguing that students in journalism need to have more exposure to the design aspects of communication, this article describes a course that simulates employment at a design company. (HTH)

Argues that fictitious roles and situations, particularly if too far removed from the students' experiences, contribute to the failure of role-playing activities as a teaching technique in second language classes. Offers an alternative view of role-taking and eight principles to guide teachers in their selection and adaptation of role-play…