Dynamics of student-computer interaction in a simulation environment: reflections on curricular issues

Interactions between the student and the digital computer is discussed for inanimate and live simulations. The smallest unit of activity is defined as a mini-run. Cost functions are suggested based on total computer response time and burden on the sensorimotor system of the user for various classes of mini-runs. Curricular issues related to the role of simulators as educational tools are described. It is suggested that in this role simulators be strongly application-specific, specialized for strong and frequent interaction and approach real-time operation of the simulated system in a virtual environment.