Recent science reform documents have called for incorporating authentic scientific discourse into science classes as engaging in discourse has shown to result in numerous benefits. Whether these benefits are observed in students depends upon the quality of the discourse in which they engage. However, characterizing the quality of student-student…

The unit basis approach to problem solving analyzes a question in such a way that the student clearly sees what data are needed to solve the problem. Two examples are presented to illustrate the approach. (JN)

Presented are three methods for dealing with chemical problems involving reaction stoichiometry. (RH)

Explains that, to teach students how to solve problems, defining the problem should be the focus, and the skills to solve the problem should be analyzed. Differentiates between exercises and real problems. (PR)

Provide guidelines for teachers to help students develop interpersonal skills. Asserts that an enhancement of these skills will in turn help students develop problem-solving skills. (ZWH)

This paper is a progress report of the first phase of a project which essentially seeks to replicate previous studies using the successful/unsuccessful design in an attempt to: (1) corroborate the surface/deep structure conclusion which has become an essential component of an understanding of problem-solving; (2) examine more closely the nature of…

Both teachers and students alike acknowledge that genetics and genetics problem-solving are extremely difficult to learn and to teach. Therefore, a number of recommendations for teaching college genetics are offered. Although few of these ideas have as yet been tested in controlled experiments, they are supported by research and experience and may…

Presents the opinion that the learning environment of recitation classes can be vastly improved if instructors pay attention to some basic learning principles. Summarizes these learning principles and presents a specific example of their application. (GS)

Provides a simple routine which allows first-year physics students to use programmable calculators to solve otherwise complex electrostatic problems. These problems involve finding electrostatic potential and electric field on the axis of a uniformly charged ring. Modest programing skills are required of students. (DH)

Described is a teaching method for chemistry that gives college students practice in experimental design. Students are given a problem and required to design a procedure to solve the problem. Problems increase in complexity as the students progress through the courses. (RH)

Describes a computer program used in an experiment in which the partial molal volumes of sodium chloride solutions are calculated as a function of concentration from densities measured with a pycnometer. The complete program listing (also available from the author on disk) and a sample run are included. (JN)

Presents a technique which aids students in solving static problems involving three or more torques about a given axis. The method is longer and equivalent to the standard method, but students experience success with this new way to treat the more complicated equilibrium problems. (DH)

Discusses the integration of decision-making exercises into biology courses. (MKR)

Describes an activity which introduces students to the nature and challenges of paleoanthropology. In the exercise, students identify diagrammed bones and make interpretations about the creature. Presents questions and tasks employed in the lesson. (ML)

Reviews articles and books which focus on topics and strategies related to problem-solving. Also describes the Kepner-Tregoe industrial training program. This program contains many problem-solving ideas and strategies appropriate for the college level. (JN)