The ontological problem is "what exists?" The answer regarding the part of consciousness which is related to left hemisphere is that only individual discrete objects exist; objects are regarded one at a time. The answer regarding the part of consciousness which is related to right hemisphere is only comprehensive entities exist; each…

Guidelines are given for teaching basic concepts (such as "above,""least," and "different") to students who are educable mentally handicapped. Stressed is direct and systematic instruction in basic concepts as an integral part of the curriculum with concrete, representative, and abstract applications. (DB)

The study, with 57 children (ages 3-6) enrolled in 3 Head Start classes, demonstrated that short-term, large-group basic concept instruction combining direct instruction with interactive and incidental teaching techniques resulted in significantly improved scores on the Boehm Test of Basic Concepts-Revised. (Author/DB)

This fun and educational kit is designed specifically for elementary students. The "Kid's PACK" (Population Awareness Campaign Kit) entertains and informs children on the environment and human population growth through stories, games, and concrete ideas for making a difference. In three booklets, the "Kid's PACK" offers…

The science learning cycle developed by Robert Karplus and others in the 1960's has been a useful model for many science teachers and researchers. This model stresses the use of structured inquiry to organize knowledge acquisition and problem solving. Recent research in the cognitive science tradition, however, has shown that learning and problem…

Approximately 500 nonscience major university chemistry students were surveyed to record their interpretations of specific chemical symbolism before presenting modern concepts of atomic and molecular structure, in an attempt to understand the thought processes entering students use as they interpret symbolism. Results are reported and discussed.…

Some of the literature related to preschool mathematical experiences and their effect on the development of how the child perceives the relationships of mathematics is reviewed. (MP)

Discusses the RADAR technique--Read, Analogize, Discuss, Apply, Review/Research--and how it can be used in content area classrooms to teach concepts. (FL)

How multiplication is usually taught in school and how it could be taught are discussed. Development of understanding is illustrated through children's words and work. (MNS)

This book presents a case for the development of classrooms in which students are encouraged to construct deep understandings of important concepts. The book contains 3 parts with 10 chapters. Part 1, "The Call for Constructivism," includes (1) "Honoring the Learning Process," (2) "Considering the Possibilities," and (3) "Coming to Know One's…

Five steps described by Dienes by which mathematics is learned are illustrated through the use of the topic of direct proportion. (MP)

Reviews the development of spatial organization in children with blindness. Discusses the importance of motor exploration, tactual development, and spatial representation as critical factors in developing spatial and cognitive organizations of their surroundings. Suggests seven specific activities to improve spatial organization in blind children.…

The article suggests that Belcastro rods, which retain the basic properties of Cuisenaire rods but allow instant identification by touch, may be useful in teaching mathematical concepts to blind children. Drawings illustrate use of the rods in teaching such concepts as addition and subtraction. (Author/DB)

Describes a method of teaching the order of mathematical operations based upon the psychological theory of conceptual generalization. (MDH)

This paper discusses the use of mediated learning which involves training given to other humans by an experienced adult who frames, selects, focuses and feeds back environmental experiences in such a manner as to create learning situations. The authors' program utilizing such an approach is described. (Author/EJT)