An attempt to clarify the teaching of some of the concepts of thermodynamics through the observation of an experiment with an ordinary refrigeration system is presented. The cycle of operation in the refrigeration system and the individual processes in the cycle are described. (KR)

A technique that uses a three-meter Foucault pendulum and a laser to measure latitude is presented. A 40-meter Foucault pendulum located in Finland and the ways in which it is used are described. The technical details and the plans for a continuously driven laser pendulum are discussed. (KR)

Various methods for solving the problem of finding when the hour and minute hand of a watch have the same direction are explored. The relationship of these problems to the educational environment and the maturity of the student are discussed. (CW)

Describes an exercise that uses riddles to expose students to important aspects of the process and experience of scientific thinking. Contends that the exercise allows students to examine their thought processes and to view scientific questions from different perspectives. Reports positive student reaction. (DB)

Argues that student comprehension difficulties are often diagnosed as reading problems, even though the problem extends to other learning skills. Considers the issue of comprehension in the context of reading, and examines aspects of the issue that extend to teacher communications. Suggest ways to help students understand social studies material.…

As dropout and student disengagement rates reach alarmingly high levels, learning styles theory offers one way to expand teaching methods and curricula to reach more students. Although accommodating individual differences is appealing, nagging doubts and murky research results (detailed in a sidebar) persist. Another sidebar explores culture/style…

Uses a variation of Hansen's surveyor problem to illustrate how exploring students' assumptions can lead to interesting mathematical insights. Describes methods that utilize self-stick notes and overhead transparencies to adapt computer software to specific classroom needs. (MDH)

Used multiple baseline across items design to evaluate effects of cover, copy, and compare (CCC) intervention on students' accuracy identifying states on map of United States. Results from seven students taught with CCC intervention showed the CCC intervention was effective in increasing class mean accuracy levels in locating states. Students…

The teaching of learning strategies calls for an understanding of the philosophy underlying cognitive strategy instruction as well as the specific instructional processes that promote student independence, provide information that students need to use strategies, and specifically teach generalization. This paper describes the content of strategies…

Teaching an eight-year-old girl with learning difficulties a more advanced addition strategy through multicomponent self-regulation training and a self-instructional model resulted in more rapid problem solving, fewer learning errors, and the acquisition of even more advanced addition strategies. (SLD)

Describes seven topics that should be included in a course for teachers on performance assessment and provides some ideas for teaching them. The topics range from assessment selection to recognizing inappropriate, unethical, or illegal assessment methods and uses. (SLD)

Describes a problem-solving lesson involving 24 attribute blocks in which students discuss relationships between patterns, colors, shapes, and quantity. (ASK)

Educators at the Center for Problem-Based Learning at the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy examined the professional development needs of teachers of problem-based learning. Surveys of and interviews with teachers participating in partnership activities provided data on teacher role, problem-based learning's impact on students, and the…

The use of theatrical techniques combined with factual information creates dynamic, memorable programming on sensitive subjects while enhancing audience awareness and providing information. Psychoeducational Drama (PED) is an effective and powerful approach to educational programming. A model for PED, techniques, and uses of the approach in…

Describes a problem-solving-oriented teacher-inservice program designed to provide opportunities that allow elementary teachers to focus on personal experience as a way of achieving self-understanding and a way of reconstructing their personal meanings about problem solving and problem-solving instruction. Concludes that the program had positive…