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)

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)

Presented is a mean-value theorem that generalizes the Taylor-Lagrange formula. Discussed is the asymptotic behavior of the remainder term of the formula. Several numerical schemes are derived to approximate the solution to initial-valued first order differential equations. (KR)

Discussed are various models proposed for the Moebius strip. Included are a discussion of a smooth flat model and two smooth flat algebraic models, some results concerning the shortest Moebius strip, the Moebius strip of least elastic energy, and some observations on real-world Moebius strips. (KR)

The article describes typical conceptual problems that limit adolescents and young adults with learning disabilities in their efforts to become financially responsible. In a case study format, five money management problems are presented and resolved, including organizing financial records, budgeting, reconciling bank statements, and dividing…

Investigates the conditions under which positive interdependence enhances or interferes with individual success and overall group productivity on a computer-assisted problem solving task. Results indicate that both positive goal and resource interdependence increase success in performance of tasks. (KO)

Describes a kangaroo simulation which can be adapted for use with radio tracking activities for other animals. Outlines procedures and information to help implement the activity. Provides a map of Australia, calculations, and sample kangaroo movement data. (RT)

Discusses the overall educational value of grouping students to enhance learning in the classroom. Describes an alternative to whole-group lecture which is referred to as cooperative problem solving. Explains staff training and procedures necessary for implementing this technique. (RT)

Reviews three software programs: (1) "Microsoft Works 2.0": word processing, data processing, and telecommunications, grades 7 and up; (2) "AppleWorks GS": word processor, database, spreadsheet, graphics, and telecommunications, grades 3-12, Apple IIGS; (3) "Choices, Choices: On the Playground, Taking Responsibility":…

Explains a lesson in which the scientific method is used as a teaching strategy. Discusses when this approach can be used, the interdisciplinary method, and sample science concepts that can be appropriately taught this way. (RT)

To develop students' abilities to reason with mathematics and apply mathematics to problem solving are abetted by building on their personal experiences, integrating the curricula, and designing learning activities that require students to write or speak about mathematics. Using an integrated approach is discussed and examples are included. (MNS)

Tessellations provide an opportunity to incorporate a variety of geometric topics in one unit, allowing students to review shapes and focus on relationships among them. Three activities are described, with illustrations. (MNS)

Ten teachers successfully taught first- and second-grade children to count up while keeping track with finger patterns. Learning to subtract by counting up greatly improved children's performance on take-away, compare, and equalize word problems, and enabled them to accelerate by as much as three years their learning of subtraction topics. (MNS)

Presents an algorithm for solving problems related to multiple allelic frequencies in populations at equilibrium. Considers sample problems and provides their solution using this tabular algorithm. (CW)