Providing support in learning from Computer simulations: interface aspects

In contrast to computers assisted instruction programs (traditional and 'intelligent') exploratory learning environments offer the learner possibilities that go beyond the capabilities of a human teacher. One form of exploratory environments is computer simulations which pro­vide the learner the opportunity to learn in an active way, as is advocated by most modem teach­ing theories. However, it has also become clear that learning by means of simulations puts a high cognitive demand on the learner. Additional support might be needed if learning from simula­tions is to be effective. This paper analyses the situation and indicates how this support can be given by a computer learning environment taking into account four characteristics of instruc­tional use of computer simulations: simulation models, instructional goals, (exploratory, discov­ery) learning processes and learner activity. The paper mainly describes one of the aspects of such a learning environment: the learner interface.