Facets of problem solving instruction (PSI) were studied in German mathematics classrooms. Nine different facets of PSI were identified from the research literature, and a video rating form was developed to assess these facets and teacher effectiveness. Videotaped mathematics lessons (n=147) for German eighth graders from the sample for the Third…

ToonTalk is an animated interactive world inside of which one can construct a very large range of computer programs. These programs are not constructed by typing text or arranging icons, but by taking actions in this world. Robots can be trained, birds can be given messages to deliver, and so on. This paper describes the design and preliminary…

This paper reports the results of a 2-year study investigating the types of experiences and support necessary for in-service teachers to effectively integrate Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in their teaching/learning environments. The complex nature of GIS software prompted the authors to ask whether GIS can be a useful tool in the…

This document contains Volumes 1 and 2 of the proceedings of the 23rd annual conference of the Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia Incorporated (MERGA) held at Fremantle, Western Australia, July 5-9, 2000. Papers in Volume 1 include: (1) "Bridging Practices: Intertwining Content and Pedagogy in Teaching and Learning To Teach"…

Cites need for properly integrating computers into curriculum, warning about past mistakes and looking at methods to promote curricular change. Identifies as important goals a clear definition of mathematics education and the benefits of a technologically integrated curriculum presenting ideas/strategies for achieving these goals. (JM)

Explains cognitive basis for change in science paradigms using Watson-Crick DNA model to illustrate concepts of "normal" versus "revolutionary" science. Examines these concepts in light of teacher preception of science, and discusses implications for the practice of science education. (JM)

The case method of teaching in the liberal arts is recommended as a means of reconciling the college curriculum with modern vocational needs for education and problem-solving skills. The method is student-centered, encourages group interaction and cooperation, and relates learning to experience. (MSE)

Included in this column are Star Trek, a geometric construction problem; a simplified approach to correlation using scattergrams; a calculus problem concerning second derivatives for extreme values; and a note on integration by parts. (MNS)

Study aids have been developed in a format allowing students to assimilate partial answers slowly, without consulting the whole answer. Discusses rationale and advantages of using the aids and provides three examples demonstrating logical thinking required to solve short-answer problem and use in multistep mechanistic or synthetic problems.…

The abilities of third- and fourth-year students and physicians to solve problems requiring review of current literature were compared with the information-seeking procedures of the three groups. The subjects were given a patient care question to answer, and logs were maintained to document their information-seeking processes. (Author/MLW)

Describes an experiential workshop, developed to help women with career difficulties, that emphasizes freedom and responsibility for choice. The workshop uses guided fantasy and dyadic interaction for goal clarification, and role playing for dealing with authority relationships. (Author)

Eleven specific thinking skills are discussed, along with activities to help teachers develop each skill in their students. The skills are: (1) observing; (2) comparing; (3) classifying; (4) imagining; (5) hypothesizing; (6) looking for assumptions; (7) collecting and organizing data; (8) summarizing; (9) interpreting; (10) problem solving; and…

Describes a program in Colombia to enhance learning of lower class children by emphasizing acceptance, risk taking, and problem solving in a supportive environment. Parental involvement is stressed. The back-to-the-basics movement is discussed as an educational strategy antithetical to the author's philosophy. (DB)

Identifies the academic competencies and skills required for college success, as prepared by the College Board during phase one of Project EQuality. Lists competencies for reading, writing, speaking and listening, mathematics, reasoning, and studying. Considers successful study skills essential in acquiring all other competencies. (DMM)