Author states that: "What seems to be needed is an integrative, practible approach to both liberal learning and professional preparation" in order to educate people to participate in practical affairs in ways that will make a difference in the society around them. (Author/RW)

This document introduces Virginia's Oyster Reef Teaching EXperience (VORTEX), which is an interdisciplinary program focusing on the importance of oyster reef communities in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. The VORTEX program uses field and laboratory experiences supported by multimedia instruction. This document presents an overview on the biology of…

This document introduces Virginia's Oyster Reef Teaching EXperience (VORTEX), which is an interdisciplinary program focusing on the importance of oyster reef communities in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. The VORTEX program uses field and laboratory experience supported by multimedia instruction. This document presents an overview on the biology of…

This teacher's guide, with accompanying videotape, presents an episode of the NASA SCI Files. In this episode, one of the tree house detectives has had an accident and cannot get into the tree house. Using problem-based learning, the rest of the gang investigates the world of simple machines and physical science and "pull" together to…

This paper describes the approaches taken at a middle school to improve student problem solving ability and test results for the Indiana Statewide Testing for Educational Progress (ISTEP) mathematics tests. The focus was on grade 6. In 1996, 35% of the 437 students in grade 6 did not master the mathematics problem solving skill. A committee of…

In the evaluated project the core of the elementary curriculum is centered around economics, although other social science disciplines are integrated into the program which emphasizes helping students to develop problem solving abilities and analytic thinking through their involvement in learning activities. (SM)

Proposes preparation of urban engineers through interdisciplinary systems engineering research in order that technology may be applied to urban problems such as transportation, environment, and housing. Summary of report by the Urban Engineering Study Committee. Complete report available at

Discusses the use of microcomputers and software as problem-solving tools, including comments on "TK! Solver," automatic problem-solving program (reviewed in detail on pp.84-86 in this same issue). Also discusses problem-solving approaches to bridge the disciplines, such as music/physics, junior high science/mathematics (genetics),…

Described is a program, "Philosophy for Children," the purpose of which is to teach children to think independently, logically, and ethically. Students' reading, math and communication skills improved dramatically after one year in the program. Included are questions which teachers in the program are encouraged to ask. (KC)

Describes a multidisciplinary course in the sciences, humanities, and engineering that teaches the use of evidence in problem-solving. The guided design teaching method is used, in which the instructor circulates among small discussion groups to advise them on problem-solving. (MLH)

Presents an activity that requires middle level students to use mathematics and measurement skills to estimate the mass of an extinct dinosaur using museum-quality models. (JRH)

Presents a typical cost-allocation problem with possible solutions, including geometric and combinatoric ones. Provides students with a real-life application of the mathematics that they know. (KHR)

Presents many ideas regarding activities that can be used in science club meetings. Includes hints to problem solvers, problems to solve, ideas for competitions, and an interdisciplinary section about imaginary science. (DDR)

Uses poems incorporating mathematical terms to help students apply their knowledge of mathematics to another field and give evidence that what they had learned had become a useful and easily accessible part of their general experience. Includes assignment sheets. (KHR)