This volume explores the application of computer simulation technology to measurement issues in education -- especially as it pertains to problem based learning. Whereas most assessments related to problem solving are based on expensive and time consuming measures (i.e., think-aloud protocols or performance assessments that require extensive human rater scoring), this book relies on computerization of the major portion of the administration, scoring, and reporting of problem-solving assessments. It is appropriate for researchers, instructors and graduate students in educational assessment, educational technology, and educational psychology.

Cover -- Half Title -- Title Page -- Copyright Page -- Table of Contents -- Preface -- 1 Simulations and the Transfer of Problem-Solving Knowledge and Skills -- 2 Assessment to Steer the Course of Learning -- 3 Studying Situated Learning in a Multiuser Virtual Environment -- 4 Structural, Functional, and Semiotic Symmetries in Simulation-Based Games and Assessments -- 5 Training Evaluation of Virtual Environments -- 6 Representing Cognition in Games and Simulations -- 7 Problem-Solving Assessment in Games -- 8 Assessing Problem Solving in Simulation Games -- 9 Measuring Collaborative Problem Solving -- 10 Real-Time Diagnostics of Problem-Solving Behavior for Business Simulations -- 11 Use of Visualization Techniques to Improve High-Stakes Problem Solving -- 12 Assessing Problem-Solving Performance in High-Stakes Tasks -- 13 Impact of After-Action Review on Learning in Simulation-Based U.S. Army Training -- 14 Measurement of Learning Processes in Pilot Simulation -- 15 A Computational Approach to Authoring Problem-Solving Assessments -- 16 Templates and Objects in Authoring Problem-Solving Assessments -- Index

There is intense interest in computer games. A total of 65 percent of all American households play computer games, and sales of such games increased 22.9 percent last year. The average amount of game playing time was found to be 13.2 hours per week. The popularity and market success of games is evident from both the increased earnings from games, over $7 Billion in 2005, and from the fact that over 200 academic institutions worldwide now offer game related programs of study. In view of the intense interest in computer games educators and trainers, in business, industry, the government, and the military would like to use computer games to improve the delivery of instruction. Computer Games and Instruction is intended for these educators and trainers. It reviews the research evidence supporting use of computer games, for instruction, and also reviews the history of games in general, in education, and by the military. In addition chapters examine gender differences in game use, and the implications of games for use by lower socio-economic students, for students’ reading, and for contemporary theories of instruction. Finally, well known scholars of games will respond to the evidence reviewed.

What is knowledge? How can it be successfully assessed? How can we best use the results? As questions such as these continue to be discussed and the learning sciences continue to deal with expanding amounts of data, the challenge of applying theory to diagnostic methods takes on more complexity. Computer-Based Diagnostics and Systematic Analysis of Knowledge meets this challenge head-on as an international panel of experts reviews current and emerging assessment methodologies in the psychological and educational arenas. Emphasizing utility, effectiveness, and ease of interpretation, contributors critically discuss practical innovations and intriguing possibilities (including mental representations, automated knowledge visualization, modeling, and computer-based feedback) across fields ranging from mathematics education to medicine. These contents themselves model the steps of systematic inquiry, from theoretical construct to real-world application: Historical and theoretical foundations for the investigation of knowledge Current opportunities for understanding knowledge empirically Strategies for the aggregation and classification of knowledge Tools and methods for comparison and empirical testing Data interfaces between knowledge assessment tools Guidance in applying research results to particular fields Researchers and professionals in education psychology, instructional technology, computer science, and linguistics will find Computer-Based Diagnostics and Systematic Analysis of Knowledge a stimulating guide to a complex present and a rapidly evolving future.

The SAGE Encyclopedia of Educational Technology examines information on leveraging the power of technology to support teaching and learning. While using innovative technology to educate individuals is certainly not a new topic, how it is approached, adapted, and used toward the services of achieving real gains in student performance is extremely pertinent. This two-volume encyclopedia explores such issues, focusing on core topics and issues that will retain relevance in the face of perpetually evolving devices, services, and specific techniques. As technology evolves and becomes even more low-cost, easy-to-use, and more accessible, the education sector will evolve alongside it. For instance, issues surrounding reasoning behind how one study has shown students retain information better in traditional print formats are a topic explored within the pages of this new encyclopedia. Features: A collection of 300-350 entries are organized in A-to-Z fashion in 2 volumes available in a choice of print or electronic formats. Entries, authored by key figures in the field, conclude with cross references and further readings. A detailed index, the Reader’s Guide themes, and cross references combine for search-and-browse in the electronic version. This reference encyclopedia is a reliable and precise source on educational technology and a must-have reference for all academic libraries.

Business practices are rapidly changing due to technological advances in the workplace. Organizations are challenged to implement new programs for more efficient business while maintaining their standards of excellence and achievement. Human Performance Technology: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications is a vital reference source for the latest research findings on real-world applications of digital tools for human performance enhancement across a variety of settings. This publication also examines the utilization of problem-based instructional techniques for challenges and solutions encountered by industry professionals. Highlighting a range of topics such as performance support systems, workplace curricula, and instructional technology, this multi-volume book is ideally designed for business executives and managers, business professionals, human resources managers, academicians, and researchers actively involved in the business industry.

Education is expanding to include a stronger focus on the practical application of classroom lessons in an effort to prepare the next generation of scholars for a changing world economy centered on collaborative and problem-solving skills for the digital age. The Handbook of Research on Technology Tools for Real-World Skill Development presents comprehensive research and discussions on the importance of practical education focused on digital literacy and the problem-solving skills necessary in everyday life. Featuring timely, research-based chapters exploring the broad scope of digital and computer-based learning strategies including, but not limited to, enhanced classroom experiences, assessment programs, and problem-solving training, this publication is an essential reference source for academicians, researchers, professionals, and policymakers interested in the practical application of technology-based learning for next-generation education.