Described are several spreadsheet templates which use the functions of iteration and logical look-up which allow students to calculate and graph quantum mechanical functions and to simulate rotational and vibrational energy level and spectra. The templates are listed in the appendix. (KR)

In response to our technological society, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics recommends decreasing drill and reliance on multiple-choice tests and increasing problem solving and real-world applications. Other recommendations include simulation software to provide mathematical challenges, collaborative learning, and alternative…

Described is how spreadsheet and problem solver microcomputer programs may assist students in performing mathematical calculations. Discussed is the application of the equation solver "MathCAD" to various areas in the undergraduate curriculum. (KR)

Describes study of high school students that was conducted to determine whether instruction in a second programing language helps produce transfer of problem solving skills. The six dependent variables used in the study are discussed; pretests and posttests are described; and suggestions are made for further research. (36 references) (Author/LRW)

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)

A long-term instructional experiment involving 45 third graders learning LOGO demonstrated that LOGO fulfills some of its early promise when used in carefully crafted educational contexts. There was little evidence of boosting general problem-solving skills as a result of learning programing, but learning geometry appeared enhanced. (SLD)

Describes a computer program under development that is to be used as a tool for theory builders, teachers, and students in language learning. This is an interactive program and not only helps the learning of a language but also provides analysis on how language is learned. Questions if computers learn. (GG)

Sixteen impulsive hearing-impaired adolescents were trained to solve visual problems using a modified version of the "LOGO" computer language; subjects received concurrently presented self-instruction training while controls did not. On two dependent measures of impulsive problem-solving behaviors, treatment subjects demonstrated…

Naturalistic observation was used to investigate the occurrence of behaviors reflecting social competence and information processing in problem solving within educational computing environments. Forty-eight first and third graders were observed working in pairs on the computer. Findings indicate that a LOGO programing environment is superior to…

Five articles describe improvements in instructional software designed to enhance problem solving skills. Issues addressed include problem solving software to implement curriculum goals; problem solving theory and writing theory; software for elementary and secondary school science instruction; software for mathematics instruction; and cognitive…

Describes a study of 120 second-grade and fourth-grade students that explored a self-regulatory approach to problem solving by providing pairs of students with the IDEA model to identify, define, explore, and assess progress in solving computer problems. The use of student journals, classroom debriefings, and observations are discussed. (LRW)

Several CD-ROM products are being developed in Hawaii as part of MIDAS (Multimedia Industry for the Development of Academic Software), which helps promote technology in the classroom. The article examines how technology provides opportunities for students to develop higher thinking and problem-solving skills. (SM)

These reflections by the authors of a paper (EC 611 427) on computer-assisted instruction of students with learning disabilities comment on their reanalysis of the research process and their interpretations of the unanticipated results. Implications for further research on the cost effectiveness of learning-strategy training versus time-on-task…

Examines the problem of determining the minimum center of mass for a can with a varying height of liquid in it. Uses PC SOLVE computer software to graphically represent the problem situation. (MDH)

Describes the use of Smalltalk-80, a French programing language, to teach young children to program effectively using object-oriented concepts. Learning processes involving problem solving and programing are examined, the object-oriented environment is discussed, teacher training is described, and future work is suggested. (21 references) (LRW)