A small ethnographic study determining the writing strategy preferences of advanced English as a second language students (N=48) found that students' most common preferences were hierarchical treeing or planning. Open-ended exploratory techniques were also popular. The least common preference was for systematic heuristics. (Author/CB)

Addresses the absence of a diagnostic instrument to help determine if a student is experiencing problems with invention. Provides two diagnostic models, one based on L. Odell's intellectual strategies, the other on the author's extrapolation of criteria from tacit informal diagnostic estimations. Includes evaluation of the instruments by 40…

Presents thinking-aloud protocols from secondary pupils solving arithmetic story and geometrical problems and analyzes their protocols by using interpretation models founded on a general problem-solving model. A word problem solving simulation is also used to further explicate processes pupils use to solve mathematical tasks. (Author/MBR)

Reviews educational applications of artificial intelligence and presents empirically-based design variables for developing a computer-based instruction management system. Taken from a programmatic research effort based on the Minnesota Adaptive Instructional System, variables include amount and sequence of instruction, display time, advisement,…

A stochastic multidimensional unfolding (MDU) procedure is presented to represent individual differences in phased or sequential decision processes spatially. A Monte Carlo analysis demonstrates estimation proficiency and the appropriateness of the proposed model selection heuristic, and an application to capture awareness, consideration, and…

Argues against the merely descriptive presentation frequently used in teaching biochemistry and in favor of a constructivist approach called heuristic-teleonomic, which unites the process of discovery with adaptation to functional ends. Discusses difficulties inherent to the nature of biochemistry, including the conflict between acquiring…

Discusses two computer problem solving programs: rule-based expert systems and decision analysis expert systems. Explores the application of expert systems to automated chemical analyses. Presents six factors to consider before using expert systems. (MVL)

Compares a program written both in BASIC and LOGO on its inferential and decision making ability. Explains steps in each program and how deductions and decisions are made. (MVL)

Description of study conducted to establish a profile of guidelines presented in professional literature for the evaluation and revision of instructional materials emphasizes content, design, and presentation. Formative and summative evaluation are discussed; input from users, learners, and experts is described; and appendixes include a list of…

Traces the history and function of State, Operator, And Result (SOAR), a general-purpose artificial intelligence program for solving problems. The SOAR can "chunk" the result of a subgoal and learn from previous experiences. The SOAR could be applied to various expert systems. (YP)

Describes three components of a seminar in mathematical problem solving for preservice mathematics teachers: (1) a cognitive component that accents particular phases of problem solving; (2) an affective component that allows for observation of skillful problem solvers; and (3) an investigative component that provides for independent study and…

Describes the process of problem identification, data collection, and generalization in a mathematical experiment to find the speed at which a bug travels at the end of a fan blade. Presents the learning outcomes of the experiment and possible implications of using this teaching method. (MDH)

The value of GIS within school curricula seems well perceived but ill-substantiated. This paper discusses the role of GIS in the development of higher order thinking skills and in motivating student learning. It then reports on attitudinal surveys undertaken before and after student exposure to GIS-related tasks. The tasks formed part of four…

While the ARCS (Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction) model has provided educators with a heuristic approach to generally increasing the motivational appeal of instruction, it may also provide a model for stimulating and sustaining curiosity in particular. Such a model is of great use to educators who are concerned with encouraging…

The conceptual orientation that guides the University of Utah's field-based doctoral program in educational administration is described in this paper, with a focus on making judgments within the decision-making process. The first part explains the rationale for adopting the conceptual orientation and the second part describes the normative model…