Developmental Software Awards were presented to seven computer programs: (1) Kidpix (Broderbund Software), art; (2) FaceMaker, Golden edition (Queue), creative problem solving; (3) My Words (Hartley Courseware) and Paint with Words (MECC), language; (4) EZ Logo, revised edition (MECC) and Learn about Plants (Create and Worlds), math and science;…

Investigated problem-solving perseverance of (n=40) students in grades 6 and 10 while solving nonroutine number problems. Students who were ultimately successful were more inclined than others to be flexible in their use of strategies. (40 references) (Author/MKR)

Suggests that, based on a theory of situated learning, assessment must emphasize process as much as product. Several assessment examples are given, including a computer-based planning assistant for a mathematics and science video, suggestions for computer-based portfolio assessment, and speculations about embedded assessment of virtual situations.…

The types of help students sought while solving mathematics problems under the tutelage of an adult were studied for 118 3rd and 6th graders classified as high, medium, and low achievers. Sixth graders were more likely to ask for process-related hints. Other age and ability differences are discussed. (SLD)

A collection of activities and tips for elementary teachers, culled from material the magazine has published over 20 years, includes cornerstones of classroom management, top teaching strategies, and curriculum classics. A new poster offers activities for commemorating student birthdays and for enjoying the first day of school. (SM)

This paper presents a theoretical framework for investigating the role of algorithms in mathematical thinking using a combined ontological-psychological outlook. The intent is to demonstrate that the processes of learning and of problem solving incorporate an elaborate interplay between operational and structural conceptualizations of the same…

Reports on specific problem-solving difficulties of 240 chemistry teachers from 5 Nigerian states who volunteered to take part in 3 written tests and an interview. Describes the contrasts between successful and unsuccessful problem solvers, and discusses the pedagogical and psychological implications of the findings. (16 references) (JJK)

The results of questionnaires given designed to provide information on the effect of student teaching on the attitudes and career interests of secondary mathematics preservice teachers are presented. The recommendations/suggestions obtained from the questionnaires concerning the secondary mathematics and middle school methods courses and a copy of…

Ties together the educational threads of teaching thinking skills and improving the intellectual performance in deaf learners. Identifies six criteria for curriculum or research decisions related to teaching for higher-level problem solving. Applications of these ideas to mathematics are left to the reader. (MDH)

Students in grades 7 (n=4), 9 (n=9), 10 (n=13), and 11 (n=12) were interviewed to compare the use of intuitive and taught methods of problem solving. Results indicate grade 9 students could efficiently use taught methods as well as intuitive methods, whereas grade 10 and 11 students reverted to basic problem-solving methods and were reluctant to…

Asserts that students need opportunities to solve problems by making concept connections from many disciplines. Integrating mathematics and social studies can help. Includes 20 class activities and a chart recommending which grade levels are most appropriate for each activity. (CFR)

Suggests that an explanation for the differences in mathematics problem-solving strategies found in the study by E. Fennema and others may be simply that the girls in the study population are less interested in mathematics than the boys and explores some implications of this explanation. (SLD)

Describes an interdisciplinary lesson consisting of seven activities for intermediate or middle level students. Focuses on calculating monetary exchanges between the United States and Japan, specifically the prices of real estate and other items, and comparing the economies and cultures of the two countries. Gives four activity sheets. (CMK)

Compared the effects of three cooperative-learning environments on Israeli seventh graders' mathematical problem solving (metacognitive training, direct strategy instruction, and neither). Pencil-and-paper testing assessed students' problem-solving abilities. Results indicated that students exposed to metacognitive training significantly…

Argues that, in all subject areas, assessment trends are moving toward teaching concepts rather than teaching facts, and toward application of information and skills. Discusses how rubrics are helpful in specifying what criteria student performance and proficiency levels should be evaluated. Offers three rubrics (problem solving, group oral…