Showing papers in "Computers in Education in 1985"
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TL;DR: The students taught by the STAF2 computer program attained significantly higher scores for retention of knowledge, its application and evaluation when compared with those taught by a human teacher.
Abstract: Computer Assisted Learning (CAL) is a traditional activity in tertiary education Few available CAL programs exhibit user friendliness and most are complex simulation or modelling programs not primarily designed as instructional programs Authoring languages are designed to enable teachers to write instructional programs without the need to learn computer languages This investigation reports upon the use of a tutorial program written in the authoring language “STAF2” to replace human tuition as part of a mastery learning experience in undergraduate biology A similar mastery learning experience, taught identically to both student groups served as a control All learning was assessed cognitively in terms of Bloom's Taxonomy of Educational Objectives and the results compared between the human-taught and STAF2-taught groups All learning experiences resulted in the majority of students attaining mastery The students taught by the STAF2 computer program attained significantly higher scores for retention of knowledge, its application and evaluation when compared with those taught by a human teacher Whilst there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of comprehension, analysis and synthesis, the mean scores and the percentage of students attaining mastery after computer tuition was higher than the human taught group The implications of these results are discussed
18 citations
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TL;DR: CACL appears to be a promising technology for the delivery of learning strategies and future research and development efforts should examine CACL's usefulness to the training of more sophisticated learning strategies.
Abstract: This paper describes the combination of two potent training technologies (computer-based instruction and cooperative learning) into a system called computer-aided cooperative learning (CACL) and the use of CACL to train students in a general learning strategy. This six-steps strategy involves setting a task-appropriate mood, reading for general understanding, recall as much of the material as possible, detecting errors and omissions, elaborating upon the material to make it more memorable and reviewing. CACL capitalizes on the strengths and overcomes some of the weaknesses of each of the constituent technologies. The resulting program is described and some data demonstrating its effectiveness is presented. Students using CACL recalled more material from each of two passages studied individually than did students who did not use CACL. CACL appears to be a promising technology for the delivery of learning strategies. Future research and development efforts should examine CACL's usefulness to the training of more sophisticated learning strategies.
13 citations
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TL;DR: PMS is a collection of programs called PMS that performs exactly this function for the teaching of Pascal and is written in Pascal and runs on several computers including the IBM PC.
Abstract: One of the essential tasks in the teaching of a programming language is the introduction of the main constructs of the language—the syntax and semantics of statements, control, procedures, file handling, and so on. Most teachers present this topic by simulating the operation of the computer on the chalkboard by manual tracing of the execution of sample demonstration programs. Upon closer inspection it becomes clear that this task could be performed by the computer itself. A program implementing this idea would help the teacher in the class and the student (who could use the computer to repeat the instructor's performance at any time and on any problem of his choice) both in the class and in study. This article describes a collection of programs called PMS that performs exactly this function for the teaching of Pascal. PMS is organized as a collection of “mimlanguages” each of which demonstrates, and allows the user to experiment with, a certain category of Pascal features using a particular screen representation. Each of the subsystems contains a syntax-driven, screen-oriented translator associated with an interpreter that controls execution and the appropriate screen representation. This modular structure of PMS reflects the fact that programming is always taught by presenting certain essentially disjoint language features individually. In addition to their logical independence, these disjoint concepts also require different graphical approaches for their visual representation and this reinforces the need for modularization of the package. PMS is written in Pascal and runs on several computers including the IBM PC.
12 citations
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TL;DR: Findings of this study provide implications of integrating computer literacy with existing curriculum and provide guidelines for curriculum planners and persons responsible for the acquisition of hardware, software and staff development.
Abstract: This article presents a process of prioritizing selected computer literacy topics as an initial step in implementing computer literacy programs for secondary schools. Ninety-five Nebraska educators formed the sample. A 45-item questionnaire was developed as the instrument. Educators were asked to choose more preferable topics among other topics for teaching secondary school students about computers. Thurstone's Law of Comparative Judgment was used to scale or locate educator's opinions about computer literacy topics on an interval level continuum. A general knowledge about computers was emphasized by educators surveyed. Hands-on experiences were viewed as necessary for students who want to be competent in using computers. Programming skills were suggested but not essential for computer literate students. Findings of this study provide implications of integrating computer literacy with existing curriculum. Results also provide guidelines for curriculum planners and persons responsible for the acquisition of hardware, software and staff development.
11 citations
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TL;DR: In this article, a longitudinal investigation of the qualitative changes shown by fourteen preschool children in the development of programming knowledge about Logo over a period of 8 months was conducted, where children were grouped into three groups: sophisticated learners, those who are sophisticated learners and those who function well in Logo environments under support and continuous direction from the Logo teacher.
Abstract: Computers are becoming an integral part of the classroom and home environments of children. Yet, there are unanswered questions concerning their effects on young children's learning. Conceptualized within the framework of Piagetian theory and the educational philosophy provided by Papert, this study is a longitudinal investigation of the qualitative changes shown by fourteen preschool children in the development of programming knowledge about Logo over a period of 8 months. Based on their performance, children were grouped into three groups: (1) those who are sophisticated Logo learners; (2) those who function well in Logo environments under support and continuous direction from the Logo teacher; and (3) children who do not function well in Logo environments. In the second part of the study, an investigation of individual difference variables such as field dependent-independent cognitive styles, mathematical ability, creativity, computer and computer-related experiences within the home and outside the home, indicated that only the variable computer-related experiences within the home and outside the home was important in differentiating between the three groups. The findings of the study do not support the claims made by Papert about learning in Logo environments and suggest that Logo learning environments for preschool children be designed by taking into consideration developmental levels of children and individual differences among children. Furthermore, a new set of concepts and paradigms for studying learning in Logo environments needs to be formulated.
11 citations
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TL;DR: A video monitoring technique, which produces a synchronized record of the computer output and the children's use of theComputer program is described, which affords a greater precision of data than observational techniques.
Abstract: Few studies of computer-based learning materials concentrate upon the learner-computer interaction. Fewer studies have focused on the way children learn science using computer-based learning programs. The studies that have been done employed observational methods. A video monitoring technique, which produces a synchronized record of the computer output and the children's use of the computer program is described. The technique affords a greater precision of data than observational techniques. A study which employed this technique is described.
9 citations
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TL;DR: The advantages of using a suite of computer programs developed to aid the teaching of undergraduate students in the principles and applications of digital signal processing are discussed.
Abstract: The advantages of using a suite of computer programs developed to aid the teaching of undergraduate students in the principles and applications of digital signal processing are discussed. One particular interactive graphics program which displays z-plane diagrams and the related frequency response graphs is described and examples of the display presented. Some experience in using this software is presented.
8 citations
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TL;DR: Results indicate that children asked the most questions about the keyboard, how to enter data and the meaning of program instructions, and children also had difficulty remembering operating system commands and had problems distinguishing characters on the screen.
Abstract: This paper reports the results of a study conducted at a Texas elementary school which examined the types of questions children ask as they learn to use a computer. Throughout the study, a log was kept of each child's questions. Questions were then classified into eight distinct categories. Results indicate that children asked the most questions about the keyboard, how to enter data and the meaning of program instructions. Children also had difficulty remembering operating system commands and had problems distinguishing characters on the screen. Elaboration of the classification scheme to other populations should add to the general knowledge of human-computer interface and should help improve the understanding of the questioning process.
8 citations
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TL;DR: In this article, a pocket computer (Casio model FX-702P) was used to solve some problems arising in gas dynamics, including algebraic calculations, solution of transcendental equations and finite difference solutions of coupled, nonlinear ordinary differential equations.
Abstract: A pocket computer (Casio model FX-702P) has been utilized to solve some problems arising in gas dynamics. The programs reported cover algebraic calculations, solution of transcendental equations and finite difference solutions of coupled, nonlinear ordinary differential equations. In gas dynamics terms, the algebraic computations pertain to properties variation in isentropic flow, Rayleigh flow and Fanno flow. The transcendental equations solved are those arising in Prandtl-Meyer flow and oblique shock analysis. Problems of pipe flow with simultaneous friction and heat transfer, unsteady discharge of a variable-volume tank through a convergent nozzle, Taylor-Maccoll flow over a cone and flow in a rocket nozzle with secondary injection of oxidant in the divergent section, are used as illustrative examples of coupled, nonlinear ordinary differential equations.
8 citations
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TL;DR: A simulator for a computer system comprising a simple central processor, memory and a variety of peripheral devices is described, used in the laboratory component of an introductory course on computer systems and assembly language programming.
Abstract: This paper describes a simulator for a computer system comprising a simple central processor, memory and a variety of peripheral devices. The simulator is used in the laboratory component of an introductory course on computer systems and assembly language programming. The simulator exploits the limited “cursor graphics” capabilities of commonly available display terminals; the graphics are used to present a view of the internal operations of the simulated computer.
5 citations
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TL;DR: The technique involved in designing a clinical simulation problem for the allied health field of Respiratory Therapy and a sample program is provided illustrating a programming technique in BASIC which includes a sample flowchart.
Abstract: The technique involved in designing a clinical simulation problem for the allied health field of Respiratory Therapy is described. The structure, content and scoring categories are discussed. A sample program is provided illustrating a programming technique in BASIC (Beginners' All Purpose Symbolic Instruction Code) which includes a sample flowchart.
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TL;DR: This paper outlines one answer to part of the problem—how to teach the skills of report writing, using a microcomputer to generate feedback.
Abstract: It can be very time consuming for educators to improve students' written communication skills. Ideally, it requires tutors to spend a considerable amount of time diagnosing and remedying individual problems. Unfortunately, this is not possible when teaching the very large classes that now seem to be the norm in higher education. This paper outlines one answer to part of the problem—how to teach the skills of report writing, using a microcomputer to generate feedback.
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TL;DR: It is shown how computers can be used in engineering education to bridge the gap between theoretical analyses and typical industrial problems.
Abstract: The paper shows how computers can be used in engineering education to bridge the gap between theoretical analyses and typical industrial problems. In industry, an engineer has to incorporate his own judgement into his calculations and then has to try a range of solutions before selecting the most suitable for his purpose. The selection of gears for a gearbox and the design of a planing machine structure are used as illustrations.
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TL;DR: A method of assigning letter grades which are based on five preliminary grading routines, and include both absolute grading and relative or “adaptive-level” grading, which may be standardized among different instructors and over time for each instructor is presented.
Abstract: This paper presents a method of assigning letter grades which are based on five preliminary grading routines, and include both absolute grading and relative or “adaptive-level” grading. The routines are programmed in a microcomputer spreadsheet software program. The teacher then chooses the final grade distribution either from the suggested routine distributions, or by making an appropriate adjustment of them. It is hoped that, with the help of microcomputers, this method may be the first step toward a uniform grading process, which may be standardized among different instructors and over time for each instructor.
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TL;DR: This paper examines software licensing to installations with more than one microcomputer, using the microcomputer lab example to provide realistic cases of circumstances where standard software licensing practices are impractical.
Abstract: Mass marketed software for microcomputers, either by hardware vendors or by an increasing number of independent software vendors, is an important segment of today's computer industry. In an effort to maintain trade secrecy protection and to deter copying, the software is usually licensed, not sold, to users. Microcomputer users should certainly be aware of the software licensing requirements they face. This paper examines software licensing to installations with more than one microcomputer. First, common software licensing practices are presented. Next, various settings for employing multiple micros are considered. Included in these settings is the description of a microcomputer lab for a college of business. Then, a discussion of the applicability of the common licensing practices to such settings points out that such practices may, in certain instances, be inappropriate. The microcomputer lab example is used to provide realistic cases of circumstances where standard software licensing practices are impractical. Finally, to rectify the dilemmas identified, recommendations for more practical licensing requirements that still allow software vendors to protect their interests are provided.
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TL;DR: An interactive graphics package dealing with propagation of elastic waves is presented and can be used to teach the fundamentals of mechanics at undergraduate level to provide a sound understanding of both the phenomenology of wave propagation in an elastic medium and its mathematical description.
Abstract: An interactive graphics package dealing with propagation of elastic waves is presented. It can be used to teach the fundamentals of mechanics at undergraduate level. The goal of the package is to provide a sound understanding of both the phenomenology of wave propagation in an elastic medium and its mathematical description.
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TL;DR: In this article, it is argued that the University-industry interaction could take many forms and that stronger partnerships are required between universities (as providers of know-how) and industries (as practitioners) to meet current and future manpower demands.
Abstract: In developing countries there is an acute shortage of well informed and technically qualified personnel in the computing field. For this reason, stronger partnerships are required between universities (as providers of know-how) and industries (as practitioners) so as to meet current and future manpower demands. In this paper it is argued that the University-industry interaction could take many forms. Some of these are presented. Particular attention is focused on the barriers which tend to inhibit such desirable co-operation.
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TL;DR: The paper presents one set of primitive string operations which have been successfully presented to students in the context of text processing and shows that only a very few primitive operations are needed even for quite advanced string processing.
Abstract: The recent rise in interest in text (or word) processing has meant the need for an increased awareness of string processing facilities offered by high level programming languages. In particular there is a need to re-examine how string processing is taught to novice programmers. This paper argues the case for a more natural set of string processing operations to be made available as part of general purpose high level programming languages used for teaching. The paper presents one set of primitive string operations which have been successfully presented to students in the context of text processing. Importantly, only a very few primitive operations are needed even for quite advanced string processing.
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TL;DR: In comparing the analyses of performances for beginners and veterans, the objective and distinct difference of performing techniques among various players was identifiable and could see the improvement of an individual student with practice.
Abstract: An automatic evaluation system for musical performances of keyboard instruments has been developed. The system incorporates a music synthesizer and a mini-computer. The system is not restricted to music which has a particular musical beat but is designed for general musical compositions. The computing section of the system accurately calculates the key position, the on and off time of the key touch, and its duration. The analysis section of the system compares a just completed performance with a previously completed correct rendition. Two kinds of information are provided for feedback. 1. (1) Where and how to correct the practised performance; 2. (2) A holistic and numerical evluation of the performance. The system provides identical instructing information on the disparity of tempo as that provided by a trained music instructor for a beginning learner. Moreover, in comparing the analyses of performances for beginners and veterans, we could see the improvement of an individual student with practice. In addition the objective and distinct difference of performing techniques among various players was identifiable. These data agreed with our expected results.
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TL;DR: A tournament style computer competition eminently suitable for students is described in this article, which is based on the celebrated "Prisoner's Dilemma" paradox and is an interesting mix of logical analysis and knowledge of computer programming.
Abstract: A tournament style computer competition eminently suitable for students is described here. It is based on the celebrated “Prisoner's Dilemma” paradox and is an interesting mix of logical analysis and knowledge of computer programming. Such a tournament has been run at the author's institution.
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TL;DR: A software system for simulation of the machining operations of a computerized numerically-controlled lathe is described, which can be used as a substitute for the more expensive machine tool or as a diagnostic and preview tool prior to actual machining.
Abstract: A software system for simulation of the machining operations of a computerized numerically-controlled lathe is described. The microcomputer-based, BASIC software reads part program instructions from a sequential file, analyzes each instruction for errors and provides printed output describing the machine commands called for by the instruction as well as graphic output for tool motions. In an educational environment, the system can be used as a substitute for the more expensive machine tool or as a diagnostic and preview tool prior to actual machining.
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TL;DR: Oggin has been implemented in Pascal under the VAX/VMS Operating System and so has the additional benefit that the student can continue to work with the same program preparation tools as have been used in earlier courses of programming.
Abstract: The “virtual computer” oggin consists of a combination of an assembler and an interpreter which has been designed to provide students with the opportunity to write simple programs at the machine level and observe the effects of their execution upon the components of the oggin CPU. Oggin has been implemented in Pascal under the VAX/VMS Operating System and so has the additional benefit that the student can continue to work with the same program preparation tools as have been used in earlier courses of programming.
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TL;DR: A sample set of microcomputer experiments demonstrating the use of an interface adapter is described, designed and built by experienced students to give confidence to first time undergraduates in laboratory conditions.
Abstract: A sample set of microcomputer experiments demonstrating the use of an interface adapter is described. These experiments are designed and built by experienced students to give confidence to first time undergraduates in laboratory conditions.
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TL;DR: Two important application features of a digital computer—digital simulation and data acquisition—are utilized to illustrate the effectiveness of computers as an engineering problem solving tool and to consolidate concepts taught in the class.
Abstract: A Computer Assisted Teaching (CAT) package on Control Engineering is presented. Two important application features of a digital computer—digital simulation and data acquisition—are utilized to illustrate the effectiveness of computers as an engineering problem solving tool and to consolidate concepts taught in the class. The package is conversational and coupled with the extensive use of graphics Swhich make it ideally suitable for use in an educational environment.
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TL;DR: The experience of using microcomputers in the teaching of mathematics to undergraduates at Paisley College of Technology is presented and the definition and development of software tools for interactive programs to be used in mathematics teaching is found to be of prime importance.
Abstract: This paper presents the experience of using microcomputers in the teaching of mathematics to undergraduates at Paisley College of Technology. The production of software for use by students has been a sizeable undertaking and the paper presents an account of the software development programme whose first stage was a formative and experimental period on which was based the specification of the software developed in the second stage. The definition and development of software tools for interactive programs to be used in mathematics teaching has been found to be of prime importance in producing the required software in a relatively efficient manner.
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TL;DR: The network analysis program designed for R/gm/C networks which contain up to 4 nodes, including the reference (ground) node, gives the transfer function A(f) = V out V in for specified frequency f.
Abstract: This paper describes an a.c. network analysis program designed for R/gm/C networks which contain up to 4 nodes, including the reference (ground) node. It gives the transfer function A(f) = V out V in for specified frequency f. either as single-frequency points or as multiple-frequency sweep. It also gives the band-edge (3 dB) frequencies and poles zeros of the transfer function. The network is specified by entering component values and node numbers associated with each component. The program is segmented in two parts, each of 224 HP-67/97 program steps: part 1 deals with internal computation of the polynomial coefficients of the network, while part 2 computes and displays the output parameters. The program is of interest to Electrical Engineering students, particularly those who are studying the basics of linear circuit analysis and design.
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TL;DR: A suggested outline for a general-purpose systems course is presented, i.e. accounting majors complete a general purpose as opposed to a specific-purpose accounting systems course.
Abstract: Enrollments in the basic undergraduate accounting information systems course are rapidly increasing. Paralleling this growth is the increasing growth in degree programs in management information systems or business information systems. Hence many schools of business offer a variety of information systems courses to their undergraduate students, including accounting students. This paper considers the alternate strategies in structuring an undergraduate accounting systems course (1) when accounting majors complete systems-related courses prior to completion of the accounting systems course and (2) when accounting majors do not complete any other systems-related courses. Results of a study suggest that the latter approach presently dominates in the accounting community, i.e. accounting majors complete a general purpose as opposed to a specific-purpose accounting systems course. Accordingly, this paper presents a suggested outline for a general-purpose systems course.
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TL;DR: The intention of this paper is to highlight the design considerations applicable to an educational environment, more pragmatic than conceptual, with particular examples given of the use of distributed computing in sharing limited resources in an environment where adequate computing equipment is often a luxury.
Abstract: Much has been written on the desirable aspects of distributed computing, with material too often describing exotic equipment and protocols that are offered. The intention of this paper is to highlight the design considerations applicable to an educational environment. The approach is more pragmatic than conceptual, with particular examples given of the use of distributed computing in sharing limited resources in an environment where adequate computing equipment is often a luxury. It is worth noting that institutions with little research funding have very limited resources, despite the recognised need for computing in education. It is hoped that the reader will get some understanding of the intricate and complex world of distributed computing design, whilst appreciating the advantages of such techniques in supporting fundamental teaching requirements.