Scientific reasoning, argumentation, and problem-solving are essential skills in 21st century. They help people solve problems in daily life. This study aimed to investigate the effect of local-based teaching materials on student's argumentation, scientific reasoning, and problemsolving skills using Science Project-based Learning (SPjBL).…

Combinations of text and different types of pictures are commonplace in biology as in science in general. The single representations (i.e., text, picture) constituting a text-picture combination may contain redundant or complementary information. The ability to identify and integrate information in different kinds of text-picture combinations is…

It is not uncommon for students to find themselves underprepared when entering a post secondary institution. In additional to lower levels of academic achievement, underprepared students may not be aware that they lack the skills needed to be successful and effectively acquire and process information. Because of this, students that enter…

In recent years, interactive computer simulations have been progressively integrated in the teaching of the sciences and have contributed significant improvements in the teaching-learning process. Practicing problem-solving is a key factor in science and engineering education. The aim of this study was to design simulation-based problem-solving…

The traditional approach to teach problem solving usually consists in showing students the solutions of some example-problems and then in asking students to practice individually on solving a certain number of related problems. This approach does not ensure that students learn to solve problems and above all to think about the solution process in…

The case for chemistry instruction based on worked examples is presented, using a contemporary model of human learning. We begin by detailing human cognitive architecture and outlining the Interactive Compensatory Model of Learning (ICML). Through the ICML, the role of motivation, deliberate practice and feedback are detailed as key variables in…

Discusses teaching the minimization of area and distance, such as finding the minimum length of expressway connecting four cities by using an analogy of a soap film between two Lucite plates. (MLH)

Presents an application of the formulas of kinematics to the real driving situation, involving motion at constant speed and deceleration. Suggests the problem be used as an example in class, a homework assignment, or a test item. (CC)

Describes an alternative method to algebraic procedures for solving problems involving the proportional composition of a mixture. (TS)

Develops a graphical method for studying the parallel susceptibility of an antiferromagnetic material. (SL)

Presents a simple model whereby the work per cycle done on an external agent, and a sand reservoir, by a reversible heat engine can be analyzed explicitly. (Author/SL)