Describes experiences as judges at the University of Minnesota Learning Software Design Competition. Highlights include criteria for judging; an overview of some of the software programs; and the future of learning software, including Internet delivery, emphasis on visual and three-dimensional problem-solving environments, rich learning…

Demonstrated in this article are some of the capabilities of a spreadsheet program using data obtained in gas law experiments and a computer interface system. The ability to organize and analyze data which a computer can provide for the student is emphasized. (KR)

Computer-naive university students (N=124) were taught the BASIC programing language by solving and receiving feedback on program comprehension problems stated in BASIC or on corresponding problems stated in English followed by problems stated in BASIC. Results support a sequential method of instruction beginning with use of natural language…

Discusses the appropriate use of Logo and microcomputers in elementary education and gives recommendations for its successful use. Highlights include problems with unsubstantiated claims for the benefits of Logo; the effects of teaching children to program; formal operational thinking; research on Logo; and problem solving and transfer to other…

Discussion of student control of learning focuses on tutorial computer-assisted learning (CAL). Modular course design is discussed, learning styles and the influence of CAL are described, and skills needed by students to use tutorial CAL effectively are examined, including note taking, using summaries and worksheets, and problem solving. (16…

Selects five critical elements for success in problem solving in mathematics and in computer programing: general strategy; planning; logical thinking; variables; and debugging. Describes the role of the five elements based on a literature review. Forty-one references are listed. (YP)

Presents model of instructional strategy planning that links specific cognitive learning and thinking processes with specific computer-based instructional strategies. Topics discussed include memory systems; types of knowledge; drill and practice; tutorials; task-oriented simulations; problem-oriented simulations; and self directed experiences.…

Describes a multimedia training program developed for Union Pacific to help improve management-worker relations and to improve service reliability by improving morale and motivating employees for training. Courses are described; multimedia interactivity is explained, including decision making and problem solving; and future plans are reviewed.…

Reports the results of a study that examined the patterns of interactions of high school student partners engaged in problem-solving activities while working through computer simulation activities in an astronomy lab. Observations, interviews with teachers and students, and a software program evaluation are discussed. (LRW)

Presents one model for a liberal arts mathematics course that combines probability and calculus. Describes activities utilized in the course to heighten students' interest and encourage student involvement. Activities include use of visualization, take-home tests, group problem solving, research papers, and computer usage with DERIVE computer…

Described is a computer software package suitable for teaching and research in the area of multicomponent vapor-liquid equilibrium. This program, which has a complete database, can accomplish phase-equilibrium calculations using various models and graph the results. (KR)

Presents the use of spreadsheets as an alternative method for precalculus students to solve maximum or minimum problems involving surface area and volume. Concludes that students with less technical backgrounds can solve problems normally requiring calculus and suggests sources for additional problems. (MDH)

This literature review examines the contribution of the LOGO programming language toward facilitating elementary school students' learning and in promoting problem-solving skills. Topics addressed include positive and negative effects of LOGO use; LOGO theory and development; transfer of LOGO skills; and support for structured, teacher-mediated…

Describes a study that investigated the activities of engineering students working on a collaborative design project in a distributed multimedia environment. Topics discussed include learning as a social process; face-to-face and video communication; problem-solving techniques; use of interactive media; the construction of knowledge; and group…

The Computer-Assisted Medical Problem-Solving system, designed to teach problem solving and pattern recognition, has also been found useful for identifying medical students' problems with clinical reasoning. Analysis of individual test results allows development of a student problem-solving profile score that augments the initial test score. (MSE)