States that history instruction can be made meaningful and enlightening only by examining historical choices and their results against available options and likely consequences. Presenting examples, the author argues that well-crafted historical simulations focusing on such elements as choice and consequence, strategy and tactics provide a useful…

Discusses advantages and disadvantages of using computer simulations (including those involving application of mathematical models) in teaching physiology and pharmacology, indicating that the major benefit is in performing experiments that cannot be performed in the laboratory. Also considers a simulation on the interaction of drugs with…

Computer sampling from a multivariate normal spherical population was used to evaluate the type one error rates for a test of sphericity based on the distribution of the determinant of the sample correlation matrix. (Author/LMO)

A simulation model of episodic memory, MINERVA Z, is applied to the learning of concepts, as represented by the schema-abstraction task. The model successfully predicts basic findings from the scheme-abstraction literature, including some that have been cited as evidence against exemplary theories of concepts. (Author/LMO)

A model of information processing has been developed that combines concepts from the study of attention and the study of problem solving. The model has been realized as a computer program and used to simulate a variety of phenomena from the attention and performance literature. (Author/LMO)

Explains an experiment in text-searching retrieval for cancer questions which developed and used computer procedures (via human simulation) to select search words from medical dictionaries. This study is based on an earlier one in which search words were humanly selected, and the recall results of the two studies are compared. (Author/LRW)

The author discusses advantages and disadvantages of computer-based training. She covers the search for high quality courseware, computers' effects on cognitive processes, the difference between classroom and computer-based training, using simulations, control of the learning experience, and the value of repetition. (CH)

This article presents an interview with Robert Taylor, a leading figure in educational computing. Among the topics covered are: (1) current developments in educational computing, (2) the changing role of teachers, (3) the resources computer technology will provide to social studies teachers, and (4) whether the probable future uses of computers…

This article provides a diverse collection of examples of computer use in elementary and secondary school social studies. Names and addresses are provided for contacting many of the projects. (JDH)

The present study compares the performance of phi coefficients and tetrachorics along two dimensions of factor recovery in binary data. These dimensions are (1) accuracy of nontrivial factor identifications; and (2) factor structure recovery given a priori knowledge of the correct number of factors to rotate. (Author/LMO)

Examines the extent to which a process control computer system is assisting departmental research (by providing a comprehensive and flexible data logging and plant control system) and providing a teaching facility for the department by live demonstrations of plant monitoring and control applications, simulation, and student implementation of…

A full-dress simulation is an attempt to recreate a moment of history with as much attention to detail as possible. How to plan and execute full-dress simulations to teach secondary students about periods of U.S. history is described. (RM)

The effects of different group processes on team performance is examined using a formative evaluation. A taxonomy of six different decision-making and leadership styles is developed. Cohesion was found to be a significant factor in explaining high performance. (Author/BL)

Discusses several considerations of which trainers should be aware when teaching the following radio production techniques to trainees in developing nations: equipment use, use of talkback facility, scriptwriting, location interviewing, drama production, educational radio production, and editing. (MBR)

Advocates the use of databases and simulations in social studies classrooms. Maintains that quality instruction, both before and after computer use, determines the quality of the learning experience. Provides titles of several simulation and database products. (JDH)