The algo-heuristic theory is concerned with identifying unobservable cognitive processes and their unconscious component cognitive operations, including learning how to describe them algorithmically and heuristically, and how to devise specific instructional tools (algorithmic and heuristic) to develop cognitive processes much faster. (BW)

After reviewing 50 educational software titles produced by 21 companies to assess how thinking and thinking skills were developed, the author found most had similar methodological drawbacks. Describes the algo-heuristic methodological position and outlines drawbacks of current software. (PEN)