PATN is a design for a machine problem solver which uses an augmented transition network (ATN) to represent planning knowledge. In order to explore PATN's potential as a theory of human problem solving, a linguistic approach to protocol analysis is presented. An interpretation of a protocol is taken to be a parse tree supplemented by semantic and…

This report describes the results of three studies which investigated the use of PLATO to teach problem solving. Subjects were 244 children from kindergarten through third grade. The first study explored the extent to which kindergartners and second graders used the knowledge about which answers were right and which were wrong to develop the…

This research is part of a series of studies, in which the long term objective is to use computer-assisted instruction (CAI) to teach students how to solve nonroutine problems, i.e., problems in which the problem solvers must generate their own strategies. The subjects were 93 first and third graders who tried to solve a novel reasoning problem on…

Engineering mechanics is recognized as one of the core subject matter areas of most engineering and technology educational programs. The study of mechanics and particularly the applications of problem solving to rigid bodies at rest (statics) has proven to be troublesome to students. Systematic problem solving includes analysis, synthesis, and…

This last paper in a set of four reviews research on a wide variety of computer applications in the mathematics classroom. It covers computer-based instruction, especially drill-and-practice and tutorial modes; computer-managed instruction; and computer-augmented problem-solving. Analytical comments on the findings and status of the research are…

Questions the justification of competency based teacher evaluation as it is presently used and recommends that the education profession establish a peer group rating system which would consider a teacher's record as it has accumulated over a period of time. (Author/DB)

Describes chemistry games included in the PLATO computer-generated graphics system developed at the University of Illinois to give students problem solving practice. (SL)

Critically evaluates the assumption that microcomputer-based instruction can be used to teach generalizable thinking and problem solving skills. Transference of problem solving skills across domains is discussed, and strategies to promote problem solving abilities are examined, including computer assisted instruction and learning programing…

The industrial education orientation program at Wisconsin School for the Deaf (WSD) presents problem-solving situations to all seventh- and eighth-grade hearing-impaired students. WSD developed user-friendly microcomputer software to guide students individually through complex computations involving model race cars and rockets while freeing…

Describes a model for the design of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in problem solving for an introductory digital systems design course. Includes evaluation. (LS)

Offers explanations of various uses of computers with children, placing appropriate applications into a developmental framework. (MP)

Describes "Josef," a robot programing language similar to the LOGO turtle language, which has been designed as an instructional system through which the algorithmic problem-solving skills required in computer programing can be developed and tested in a controlled learning environment. Four figures and a reference list are included. (JL)

Explains the three main concepts of the system dynamics approach to model building (dynamics, feedback, and systems) and the basic steps to problem solving by simulation applicable to all educational levels. Some DYNAMO commands are briefly described. (EAO)

An 18-month study of an elementary school computer laboratory is discussed. (MK)

Examines the advantages of presenting case study information via multimedia. Highlights identify advantages of using multimedia, including browsability, comprehensiveness, currency, flexibility, linkage, simplicity, precision, closeness to problem, and cost savings. Potential problems are also discussed. (Contains eight references.) (SLW)