Studies at the Curry School of Education (University of Virginia) have demonstrated that microcomputer-based simulations of classroom interactions increase participants' use of appropriate instructional techniques with computer-generated pupils. Performance feedback from the system resulted in significant decreases in inappropriate management…

How the microcomputer can be used to reinforce basic statistical concepts and techniques is presented. The methods for achieving this include specific statistical problems, projects, games, and simulations for use with microcomputers. (MNS)

Some impressions derived through a two-week study visit to the Soviet Union are presented. Background information, kindergartens, curriculum, various types of schools, and mathematics teacher-training are each considered. Finally, mathematics problems from various grade levels are presented. (MNS)

Presents a developmental taxonomy which promotes sequencing activities to enhance the potential of matching these activities with learner needs and readiness, suggesting that the order commonly found in the classroom needs to be inverted. The proposed taxonomy (story, skill, and algorithm) involves problem-solving emphasis in the classroom. (JN)

Today, because of the problem-solving skills necessary for successful 21st century living, students must be taught higher-order thinking skills. Principles intended to stimulate discussion about the appropriate means for teaching higher-order thinking are examined. (RM)

Three process-oriented approaches to high school classroom music--the problem-solving approach, the aesthetic criticism approach, and the interrelated fine arts approach--are discussed. These three approaches are recommended for curriculum reform related to the national reports. (RM)

A class survey is suggested as a way to stimulate students' interest in applying mathematics to a real-life problem that will require them to collect, organize, and interpret data. How to proceed from selection of topic to using the data to estimate and predict is discussed. (MNS)

Discusses a strategy used to incorporate value-related issues into introductory chemistry. Indicates that the approach, necessarily limited to few topics each year, encourages students to reflect on the causes and effect of science-related social issues and to define their personal values. (JN)

Investigated effects of teaching an explicit approach to problem solving on the mathematical chemistry achievement of preparatory college students (with a control group being taught dimensional analysis as its problem-solving strategy). No difference in cumulative achievement between the groups was found. Interpretations of the results obtained…

This article presents a model of a pretechnical curriculum, which has as its focus the self-empowerment of the individual, and describes how this curriculum could be implemented in the schools. Discusses the three curriculum categories: generalizable skills, transition skills, and problem-solving skills. (CT)

Presents (1) several activities on problem solving; (2) tips on creating a classroom climate favorable for problem-solving performance; and (3) a source of background materials for teachers. (JN)

Classroom strategies for helping secondary social studies students develop the following types of creative thinking are suggested: (1) the ability to generate alternative courses of action or alternative solutions in a problem solving situation; (2) the ability to perceive and predict consequences; and (3) the ability to perceive analogies. (RM)

Role-playing games and simulations offer revolutionary ways to learn and solve problems. Some games/simulations that can be used to explore and evaluate possible futures are described. The future of educational games is also discussed. (RM)

This article presents information to help the teacher recognize and teach children with special learning needs. Suggestions for diagnosis, classroom strategies, and ideas for home use are offered. Resources for teacher use follow the article. (DF)

Recommendations for increasing participation of functionally illiterate adults in community education programs include decentralization of educational sites, availability of transportation and child care, and instruction stressing functional literacy and teaching reading and computation as tools for solving students' personal and social problems.…