Describes an activity that demonstrates a teaching-learning model in which students ask yes or no questions to determine an unknown number on a number line. Provides a sequence of five steps to carry out the activity and suggestions for extending and expanding the activity for different grade levels. (MDH)

Describes "The Adventures of Jasper Woodbury," a series of four problem-solving videodisc adventure stories designed for research purposes that provide students with open-ended problems based on real-world situations. Presents design principles, research results, the teacher's role, and technology issues related to the utilization of the…

Reviews research on (1) schemata acquisition while learning mathematics and techniques for detecting schema in mathematics learners; and (2) assessment of the distribution of cognitive resources while learning mathematics that lead to the design of instructional techniques to facilitate schema acquisition. (26 references) (MDH)

Thirty-seven secondary students with learning disabilities were taught health facts and concepts, which they then applied to problem-solving exercises presented through computer simulation games. Students who were taught an explicit strategy for solving problems performed better on two transfer measures than students given supportive feedback and…

Describes a step-by-step procedure that enables teachers to develop lessons that effectively use software or special calculators in the classroom. Problem-solving strategies and questions are determined that correspond to the technology through which students are able to construct their own knowledge. Illustrates the procedure using spreadsheets,…

Inservice teachers (n=180) participating in seven mathematical problem-solving workshops were asked to define problem solving. An item analysis of the written responses indicated that 67% of the responses were conceptually or terminologically vague. Precise definitions fell into three categories: strategy-based (12%), skills-based (9%), and…

A perspective on teaching and learning in higher education that regards the learner's experience as primary is outlined. Some propositions about learning from experience are made, a model of learning from experience is discussed, and implications for instructional design are examined. Major areas for curriculum development are identified.…

This article describes a service delivery system for limited English proficiency students in regular and special education programs using problem-solving teams and criterion-referenced and/or curriculum-based assessment, with an emphasis on reciprocal interaction teaching. Goals include improved academic performance and more reliable referral of…

Suggests that the story of humanity can be presented as human groups solving the basic problems of human existence throughout time. Contends that delineating this basic theme of history can present students with a coherent view of history. Links the individual's story to the broader view and presents a teaching unit that conceptualizes this…

Describes two experiments, one with undergraduates and one with high school students, that tested instructional strategies for teaching computer programing. The cognitive styles of impulsivity and reflection are examined, completion strategy versus generation strategy is tested, and results support a preferential model rather than a compensatory…

Systems thinking involves seeing relationships between the parts to the whole within the school improvement effort. After providing the key principles and examples of systems thinking, the article emphasizes the importance of staff development, highlighting experiences at a Wellesley (Massachusetts) middle school and an Alaskan high school. (SM)

A Navajo blanket design was constructed on a bulletin board and on geoboards. Then a program was written in LOGO to construct the pattern. Both top-down and bottom-up techniques were used. Students were encouraged to make their programs more efficient by utilizing repeat and subprocedures. (GW)

Presents activities in which students develop and analyze scatterplots on graphing calculators to model corn growth, decay, a box of maximum volume, and weather prediction. Provides reproducible worksheets. (MDH)

Discusses the concept of social mathematics in which numerical information is connected to the people and issues of social studies. Maintains elementary students can learn that data represent information from the real world. Includes class activities using historical timelines, data collection, and database computer programs. (CFR)

Advice for doctoral students and fledgling educational researchers presents the following suggestions: (1) use what is known about problem finding to choose a dissertation topic, (2) be persistent in productivity and in the face of discouragement, and (3) replace the typical dissertation structure with a more functional one. (SLD)