Definitions for the terms open-ended, problem solving, and investigations are considered. The interaction between these terms and teaching styles are discussed. Student influences over the learning process in this type of investigation are examined. (CW)

Explains the need, general guidelines, expectations, and advantages of student involvement in research at the undergraduate level. Lists selected research projects conducted by students at Burlington County College. (RT)

A study examined the application and availability of clinical and biomedical knowledge in the clinical reasoning of physicians as well as possible mechanisms responsible for changes in the organization of clinical and biomedical knowledge in the development from novice to expert. Subjects were 28 students (10 second year, 8 fourth year, and 10…

Improvements in the mechanism of the whirlybird used in the Science Curriculum Improvement Study (SCIS) unit "Subsystems and Variables" are presented. Variables which can be investigated using this device are discussed. An illustration of the improved device is provided. (CW)

Reviews the history and development of the "Our Working World" elementary textbook series, an example of the New Social Studies reform movement of the 1960s and 1970s. Describes the Organic Curriculum, which integrated the fundamental ideas of five social science disciplines. Maintains that implementing the K-6 program all at once was an…

Reports on a study intended to determine the science education research interests of elementary teachers and to examine the data according to certain demographic variables. Results indicate that hands-on experience, science content, cognitive development and learning styles, problem solving, and teaching strategies were the top five research…

Presents a replication study to determine the effects of an innovative activity-centered biology program on attitudes toward science teaching among 159 prospective elementary teachers. Concludes that the course was influential in promoting positive teacher attitudes toward science and science teaching and recommends that the course be incorporated…

Describes a computer-assisted, interdisciplinary course in decision making developed to promote student participation and critical thinking. Students participate in 20 interactive exercises that utilize and illustrate psychological and economic concepts. Follow-up activities include receiving background information, group discussions, text…

This publication is a compilation of abstracts and critical comments for 12 published investigations in mathematics education. Information for each study includes: purpose; rationale; research design and procedures; findings; and interpretations. For each study also, abstractor's comments provide a brief critique. The 12 studies are: (1)…

This publication is an abstracted compilation of 11 investigations. The information includes purpose, rationale, research design and procedures, findings, interpretations, abstractor's comments, previous research, procedure and statistical methods, and further research. Contained within are: (1) "Gender-Based Differential Item Performance in…

Outlines student involvement with a conservation project that aims to develop a Regionally Important Geological/Geomorphological Site network (RIGS) at a county level in the United Kingdom. Emphasis is placed on identifying, describing, evaluating, and documenting land forms of educational, research, historical, and/or aesthetic value. (MJP)

Describes a research project that takes a problem-solving approach to teaching about social stratification. Students identify a local issue related to stratification (homeless, welfare reform, etc.). They break into small groups and design a research plan, conduct a literature search, perform the fieldwork, and arrive at a synthesis. (MJP)

Asserts that the nature and components of fieldweek (a week-long field program common to United Kingdom undergraduate geography) are adaptable to current educational changes and needs. These programs emphasize problem solving, real-world experience, and transferable skills. Briefly examines successful programs in Belgium and the Netherlands. (MJP)

Argues that impending and inevitable changes to geography fieldwork can be better understood through an appreciation of the systemic nature of fieldwork. This appreciation can help in integrating changes into fieldwork. Discusses various management system models and approaches. (MJP)

Describes an advice-giving computer system being developed for genetics education called MENDEL that is based on research in learning, genetics problem solving, and expert systems. The value of MENDEL as a design tool and the tutorial function are stressed. Hypothesis testing, graphics, and experiential learning are also discussed. (Author/LRW)