Second Life[TM], or simply SL, was developed at Linden Lab, a San Francisco-based corporation defined by its creators as "an online society within a 3-D virtual world entirely built and owned by its residents, where they can explore, build, socialize and participate in their own economy." With over 14 million residents in the SL virtual community,…

We evaluated the statistical power of single-indicator latent growth curve models to detect individual differences in change (variances of latent slopes) as a function of sample size, number of longitudinal measurement occasions, and growth curve reliability. We recommend the 2 degree-of-freedom generalized test assessing loss of fit when both…

In this paper, we develop a conceptual framework for an anthropomorphic change agent to motivate pre-service teachers to integrate technology into teaching and learning. This agent is designed with a hybrid persona that simulates a mentor and plays both motivation and companion roles. Based on the theoretical grounding in motivation and change…

Orlando and Thissen (2000) developed an item fit statistic for binary item response theory (IRT) models known as S-X[superscript 2]. This article generalizes their statistic to polytomous unfolding models. Four alternative formulations of S-X[superscript 2] are developed for the generalized graded unfolding model (GGUM). The GGUM is a…

The CACTUS project was concerned with command and control training of large incidents where public order may be at risk, such as large demonstrations and marches. The training requirements and objectives of the project are first summarized justifying the use of knowledge-based computer methods to support and extend conventional training…

Person fit is the degree to which an item response model fits for individual examinees. Reise (2000) described how two-level logistic regression can be used to detect heterogeneity in person fit, evaluate potential predictors of person fit heterogeneity, and identify potentially aberrant individuals. The method has apparently never been applied to…

This article considers two methods of estimating standard errors of equipercentile equating: the parametric bootstrap method and the nonparametric bootstrap method. Using a simulation study, these two methods are compared under three sample sizes (300, 1,000, and 3,000), for two test content areas (the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills Maps and Diagrams…

This report contains a theoretical model for describing the motion of a passenger car. The simulation program based on this model is used in conjunction with an advanced driving simulator and run in real time. The mathematical model is complete in the sense that the dynamics of the engine, transmission and steering system is described in some…

Describes the implementation of a computer simulation of magnetic field lines. Discusses properties of magnetic fields and the calculation of magnetic fields at points. Provides a program listing (additional programs and teaching notes available from the author) and gives examples of several field plots. (JM)

Situation awareness is defined as an evaluative product based on expert performance criteria. This article examines the importance of training simulation systems in developing situation awareness, focusing on high fidelity procedural training, expert knowledge and experience, and attitude and emotional state. Discusses other related issues. (68…

A program was designed to allow key research, planning, and instructional personnel of the School District of Philadelphia to begin exploring the usefulness of simulation for planning purposes in the school system. Twenty-nine school district personnel participated in a city model game in which members of the several sectors of the "city" interact…

The paper describes a 60-minute group exercise designed to demonstrate the deleterious effects of overprotection for exceptional children and youth. (CL)

The value of simulation through management games depends on realism, timely feedback, a balance between simplicity and sophistication, and the trainer's own ingenuity and initiative. (LY)

With the development of high-powered jet aircraft, British European Airways find simulators almost indispensable as safe, effective, and economical training devices. (EB)