This book introduces journal-writing prompts in mathematics for geometry. Content prompts, attitudinal or affective prompts, and process prompts are presented. Each of the content prompts relates or connects topics within and outside of mathematics, targeting important or meaningful concepts and skills. The content prompts also provide situations…

This study describes how the lesson plans of preservice teachers differed from the inductive learning cycle planning model, and relates these differences to persistent naive conceptions about effective science pedagogy held by preservice teachers. Strategies based on the science misconceptions literature that methods instructors can use to…

Demonstrated is a covariance principle that causes the observer to assume that if one aspect of a two-dimensional figure (its perimeter or its area) is conserved, the other aspect must also be conserved (pseudo-conservation). Mentally retarded individuals, assuming no such fixed relationship, correctly judged the changed state of the nonconserved…

Tests the applicability of Ausubel's theory to the meaningful learning of intellectual skills. Results of three studies of high school students indicate that advance organizers enhance learning of skills related to solubility product problems. This effect was removed if prior teaching in relevant background knowledge was included. (Author/WB)

Considers the role of evolution and natural selection in the functioning of the modern human brain. Natural selection equipped humans with a mental toolbox of intuitive theories about the world which were used to master rocks, tools, plants, animals, and one another. The same toolbox is used today to master the intellectual challenges of modern…

Current knowledge about cognitive development in mathematics is reviewed, specific effective strategies for presenting materials in class are described, and effective strategies for mathematics program content and organization are outlined. Substantial information on recent research and on instructional materials is included. (MSE)

Discussion of student control of learning focuses on tutorial computer-assisted learning (CAL). Modular course design is discussed, learning styles and the influence of CAL are described, and skills needed by students to use tutorial CAL effectively are examined, including note taking, using summaries and worksheets, and problem solving. (16…

Describes a model that teaches a problem-solving process and provides students with the opportunity to practice, develop, and enhance their thinking skills. States that applying learning to real problems is needed to increase a student's thinking ability. Provides diagrams of the problem-solving cycle and levels of thinking. (RT)

Considers research concentrating on the correlation between knowledge structure and learning. Suggests implications of this research to classroom teaching. Cites characteristics of unsuccessful and successful problem solvers. (RT)

Presents model of instructional strategy planning that links specific cognitive learning and thinking processes with specific computer-based instructional strategies. Topics discussed include memory systems; types of knowledge; drill and practice; tutorials; task-oriented simulations; problem-oriented simulations; and self directed experiences.…

This paper presents a theoretical framework for investigating the role of algorithms in mathematical thinking using a combined ontological-psychological outlook. The intent is to demonstrate that the processes of learning and of problem solving incorporate an elaborate interplay between operational and structural conceptualizations of the same…

Describes a study that investigated the activities of engineering students working on a collaborative design project in a distributed multimedia environment. Topics discussed include learning as a social process; face-to-face and video communication; problem-solving techniques; use of interactive media; the construction of knowledge; and group…

Presents a motion problem that students in a college physics class are asked to solve and later asked to continue to analyze until they have stopped learning from the problem or the problem itself is finished. (MDH)

Ties together the educational threads of teaching thinking skills and improving the intellectual performance in deaf learners. Identifies six criteria for curriculum or research decisions related to teaching for higher-level problem solving. Applications of these ideas to mathematics are left to the reader. (MDH)

Young pupils find collaborative learning hard to sustain, even though it is recommended by developmental psychology and classroom intervention theories. Investigates the effect of two role attribution strategies on communication in peer groups of different gender composition in 8th grade science classes. Confirms the effectiveness of social role…