The Patient-Oriented Problem-Solving System, a cooperative learning model, was implemented in a second year immunology course at the Oregon Health Sciences University School of Dentistry, to correlate basic and clinical sciences information about Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Student enthusiasm and learning were substantial. (MSE)

This article discusses empowering thinking skills such as brainstorming, problem solving, analysis; comparison/contrast and how to cultivate these abilities in gifted children. Examples are given of ways for teachers to model thinking skills for students. The response of a student to the ideas of the article is included. (PB)

The use of calculators in helping students to construct their own learning is discussed. Two games which illustrate this concept are presented. The features of a constructivist lesson which uses calculators are listed. (CW)

The MOONBASE AMERICA project involved teachers and 96 secondary school students who participated in the project by helping to build MOONBASE, taking a space science course, creating a communications network, and completing a 7-day simulation in the MOONBASE structure. Teacher and student outcomes were evaluated. (MDH)

The purposes of this paper are (1) to demonstrate that medical microbiology laboratory exercises should be presented with a focus on medical applications, not just traditional microbiology and (2) that exercises devoted to differential diagnostic decision making can be used to enhance the problem solving of students. (PR)

Describes a class activity of conducting a mock trial of a pretend situation of a white-tailed deep population creating problems for a town. Procedures, fact sheets, names, and descriptors of characters are provided. (PR)

Describes a mathematics course for prospective elementary teachers that has teaching and learning mathematics via problem solving at its core. Presents a problem-solving activity involving number theory and reactions by the students and teacher to the activity. (MDH)

Describes a three-week environmental minicourse in a general chemistry class. The minicourse consisted of two distinct phases, a one-week introduction to environmental chemistry and a two-week project involving a particular environmental problem. (PR)

Uses a "teaching as problem solving" perspective to examine the components of metacognition underlying the instructional practice of seven experienced and seven beginning secondary-school mathematics teachers. Data analysis of observations, lesson plans, videotapes, and audiotapes of structured interviews suggests that the metacognition of…

Outlines six steps for creating meaningful student projects using experiential learning: (1) make learning relevant; (2) make knowledge useful and creative; (3) get the students involved; (4) limit dead-end projects; (5) have students apply what they are learning to life; and (6) maximize community involvement. Describes model projects. (MJP)

Investigates the effects of computer-assisted video-based anchored instruction on promoting students' attitudes toward mathematical instruction and problem-solving skills. Examines the effects of different media attributes on students' mathematical achievement and attitudes in a situated learning environment. Findings suggest that anchored…

Interactions between levels of learner knowledge in a domain and levels of instructional guidance were investigated. Inexperienced trade apprentices were presented with either worked examples to study or problems to solve. On subsequent tests, inexperienced trainees benefited most from worked examples. With more experience in the domain, worked…

Describes the development of a project-based unit on hot-air balloons used with Israeli junior high school students. Concludes that students in the program gained experience with high-level scientific principles and technological processes, the project allows for a learning environment of cooperation and teamwork, and collaboration between…

Student performance in two different introductory biochemistry curricula are compared based on standardized testing of student content knowledge, problem-solving skills, and student opinions about the courses. One curriculum was used in four traditional, lecture-based classes (n = 381 students), whereas the second curriculum was used in two…

This article presents a rationale for why role-play simulation is an effective and socially dynamic learning strategy for VET or HE. The factors of generational change, work world demands due to global economics and rapid technological developments are drivers for educationalists to focus more on the process of learning rather than the content.…