Students (n=45) in an introductory course in hydrology used a Vee map to guide their laboratory investigation. The Vee mapping technique was utilized by groups of students working together during the investigation and was graded with a scoring rubric developed by the instructor. At the end of the investigation, students completed a survey…

Defines approaches to inquiry-based science teaching and describes many ways in which to conduct this kind of science instruction. Argues that with science reform underway, opportunities exist to transform classrooms into environments with active learners engaged in inquiry. (DDR)

Proposes a model that displays the five components of the statistical problem-solving process. Focuses on the collection of coins in sets by mint location and fully describes the procedures. Includes ideas for data collection and analysis. (DDR)

Describes an educational program that asks students to attempt to prove that the earth is spherical and that it rotates. Presents tips to pique student interest and charts related to sensing the spin, nonrotation notions, flat earth fallacies, evidence that the earth is spherical and rotates, and the role of watersheds in proving that the earth…

Summarizes points made by various commentators about the pitfalls of Web teaching. Critiques the integration of computer-assisted instruction into the larger curriculum, the quality of World Wide Web resources for teaching biochemistry, and the assessment of computer-assisted instructional components. (DDR)

Describes a teacher's use of computer software to teach geometry, specifically two cases related to angles and lines in circles. Explains instructional strategies that can be employed to support student problem solving, communication, reasoning, and connection building. (DDR)

Discusses the teaching of linear algebra with and without computer software. Considers class format with regard to computer usage, the effect of holding classes in the computer laboratory, homework, computer projects, and student responses. Appendices contain topic tutorials and sample computer projects. (DDR)

Shows by means of a mathematical example how algorithmic thinking and mathematical thinking complement each other. An algorithmic approach can lead to questions that deepen the understanding of mathematics material. (DDR)

This study evaluated a six-step strategy for solving mathematical word problems and partnered practice with 24 third-grade students with mild disabilities. Measures of process (use of the strategy regardless of correctness of answer) and product (finding correct answers) was significantly better than controls. Students' and teachers' attitudes…

Describes an instructional model for teaching abstract data types (ADTs) to high school students. Presents research results regarding students' conceptualizations of ADTs and their strategies of using them in computer science problem solving. To implement the ADTs, "black boxes" were used. (AEF)

Investigates proficiencies when students work on mathematics problems and the extent captured by knowledge categories. Explores competency that goes beyond knowledge to include mathematical 'dispositions' and 'practices' in which students engage. Considers ways in which research knowledge is conceived and developed, reflecting upon the role of…

Discussed are the limitations of teaching general problem-solving strategies and techniques and their relationship to transfer of learning. The lack of evidence for effective teaching strategies, curriculum reform ramifications, and alternative teaching techniques are considered. (KR)

Describes the successful efforts of elementary school children in Salt Lake City, Utah in forcing officials to clean up a hazardous waste site. Argues that social studies skills should be moved outside the classroom to focus on solving problems in the community. Suggests common criteria for problem-solving activities. (DB)

Analyzed was the performance of students on numerical versus conceptual chemistry problems in their freshman general chemistry course and their sophomore organic chemistry course. Data indicated that the ability to solve a problem did not necessarily imply an understanding of the concepts involved. (CW)

This study examined the verbalizations of 90 middle school students as they thought aloud while solving mathematical word problems. Results indicated that students with learning disabilities (LD) and average achievers were less strategic in approaching mathematical problem solving than gifted students, and LD students approached problem solving in…