This study seeks to establish which scientific reasoning skills are primarily domain-general and which appear to be domain-specific. The subjects, 12 university undergraduates, each participated in self-directed experimentation with three different content domains. The experimentation contexts were computer-based laboratories in d.c. circuits…

Describes a methodology for creating and using instructional activities enhanced by the use of problem-specific scenarios that include electronic templates for use in both large group and individual modes. Examples of templates used for instruction in planning, decision making, statistical concepts, and software evaluation are presented. (13…

The feasibility of guiding students of moderate aptitude to select appropriate learning strategies while they are learning an imaginary classification system was investigated in a study that contrasted the effect of system-assigned strategies for learning concepts with strategies selected by students. Subject-matter content was based on a set of…

A personal experience is described concerning problem solving that incorporates the computer to help generate multiple examples of proposed conjectures as solutions. The positive potential of technology to allow students of mathematics to experience the process of discovering mathematics through conjecture and generalization is emphasized. (MDH)

Presents a study to determine whether computer use in guided-discovery learning episodes would enhance the problem-solving ability of secondary school students (n=147). Results indicate interaction between low- and middle-level students' mathematical achievement and treatment groups, while high-level students performed well regardless of approach.…

Twelve middle school students, working in pairs, used a computer microworld to explore introductory geometric transformational concepts. Despite a tendency for symbolic overgeneralization, the students were able to use visual feedback from the microworld and discussions with partners to correct their own mistakes. (Author/JJK)

One class of interactive, computer-based learning environments (microworlds) for the exploration of school mathematics (and science) entails the incorporation of appropriate concepts within the engaging context of self-directed discovery learning. The objective of this research was to investigate and describe in detail the constructive learning…

Described is the attempt to identify relationships between pedagogy and student behavior in a mathematical microworld. The patterns of teaching associated with LOGO-based computer activities involving ratio and proportion and the teachers role in helping students bridge the gap between LOGO- and school-mathematics practices are explored. (MDH)

Illustrates where several unexpected patterns of antiderivatives can be realized during calculus instruction via the application of integration by parts to the exploration of particular members of families of functions. (JJK)

Offers LOGO as an environment that facilitates the development of cognitive strategies useful in problem solving. Presents LOGO activities requiring students to combine preprogramed procedures to produce worksheet patterns. Using this approach promotes using LOGO as a vehicle for problem solving and results in a more positive attitude toward LOGO.…

The goals of this study were to investigate problem-solving in a context that requires a rich interaction among social, motivational, and cognitive processes and to compare the effects of the mediated and discovery models of learning on students' problem-solving processes in the complex technology-based learning environment. Subjects were 88…

Argues that, if teachers of English as a Second Language deepen their understanding of learning styles and strategies, they can maximize the potential of computer-assisted individualized instruction for their students. The article suggests that, when teachers share their resources with their students and then let them go, the students will find…

Discusses and provides sample lessons of learning by discovery and weekly problem sets, which are presented as alternative methods for teaching college calculus. Both approaches stress conceptual understanding and guide the students to explore the ideas of calculus in small groups in a computer laboratory setting. (JJK)

The third in a series of 3 articles, a study of 30 students was conducted to test the effect of restructuring a unit on trigonometric identities around microcomputer activities based on the themes of educational undercurrents identified in Part II. Experimental-group students scored significantly higher relating trigonometric functions to their…

Described is an introductory probability and statistics class focused on teaching the concepts of sampling and binomial distributions through a strategy based on teacher and student generated simulation using the Boxer computer language. The value of integrating programing with teaching subject matter is demonstrated, and sample student work is…