Teacher's Guide for Computational Models of Animal Behavior: A Computer-Based Curriculum Unit to Accompany the Elementary Science Study Guide 'Behavior of Mealworms.' Artificial Intelligence Memo No. 432.

This experimental curriculum unit suggests how dramatic innovations in classroom content may be achieved through use of computers. The computational perspective is viewed as one which can enrich and transform traditional curricula, act as a focus for integrating insights from diverse disciplines, and enable learning to become more active and project oriented. This unit suggests how an interplay of computer and non-computer activities could occur with elementary school biology. This material is envisioned as a second exposure to the LOGO programing language. Hence, the issues of introducing students to the basics of writing procedures and controlling turtles are not discussed. The focus is on illustrating how accessible computer-oriented facilities can be integrated into the classroom environment. The unit is prepared as a companion to the Elementary School Science Study "Teacher's Guide to Behavior of Mealworms." (MP)