Teaching Basic Biological Simulation Techniques With the Programmable Calculator / J. D. Spain.

The programable calculator has great potential for the development of simulations which provide new dimensions to instruction in the biological sciences. Basic principles of both biology and simulation itself can be presented. An introductory course on digital computer simulation in biology is now t...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Spain, J. D.
Corporate Author: American Institute of Biological Sciences. Education Division
Language:English
Published: [Place of publication not identified] : Distributed by ERIC Clearinghouse, 1972.
Subjects:
Biology.
Computers.
Digital Computers.
Higher Education.
Models.
Newsletters.
Program Descriptions.
Programing.
Science Instruction.
Simulation.
Michigan Technological University > Olivetti Equipment > Programable Calculators
Physical Description:2 pages
Format: Microfilm Book
Description
Summary:
The programable calculator has great potential for the development of simulations which provide new dimensions to instruction in the biological sciences. Basic principles of both biology and simulation itself can be presented. An introductory course on digital computer simulation in biology is now taught at Michigan Technological University; the Olivetti Programma 101 is employed because of its simple programing language and convenient size. The course provides two quarter hours of credit and gives the students direct experience with the development and testing of a variety of biological simulations. Typically, student program and test about 15 models or simulations, and work with 5 additional prepared simulations. They prepare flow charts and write, test, and employ programs to generate data. Both students and instructors find the course gratifying. It effectively teaches the concepts and techniques of simulation, demonstrates the mathematical basis of biology, and indicates that the programable calculator will soon become an integral part of undergraduate science courses, for simulation and computer modeling as well as for data compilation and statistical analysis. (PB)
Note:Microform.
Call Number:ED079990 Microfiche
Cite As:
AIBS News/Education Division, v1 n4 p5-7 August 1972. ericd
Reproduction Note:
Microfiche. [Washington D.C.]: ERIC Clearinghouse microfiches : positive.