Investigated were student problem-solving strategies in an attempt to develop a model of student performance. The problem-solving strategies used by 30 high school students were analyzed. Suggestions for improved instruction in solving genetics problems are provided. (CW)

The Individualized Eclectic Examination is described. The format, design, and philosophy of the examination that emphasizes problem solving are discussed. Sample questions, student projects, and an illustration of the implementation of the exam are included. (CW)

Provided are 25 ideas for activities that can be used to stimulate problem-solving tasks. Discussed is a demonstration using a coin and a matchbox to teach inertia. (CW)

Exceptional students need to learn self-directed behavior and self-management procedures, in order to enhance their adaptability and problem-solving skills in work environments. An instructional model to teach adaptability skills focuses on decision-making, independent performance, self-evaluation, and autonomy. Several procedures to promote…

Presents perspectives from students and teachers about project work in mathematics. Presents a theoretical framework consisting of problem-centered studies, interdisciplinarity, participant-directed studies, and the exemplarity principle. Contrasts theoretical conceptions with practice. (MKR)

Includes "$20,000 Question" (Whittington); "Genius of the Agricultural Education Model for Nurturing Higher Order Thinking (HOT)" (Newcomb); "Effective Use of Discussion Method Teaching" (Cooke); "Insects in the Classroom" (Klowden); "Increasing Thinking Skill through HOT Teaching" (Torres, Cano); "WHY? Practices Used in Vocational Classrooms to…

Focuses on a group of children with moderate learning difficulties who exhibited a lack of interest or enjoyment in drawing. Attributes this to a developmental lag in the use of specific forms and drawing skills. Concludes that nonspecialist teachers could benefit from a greater awareness of developmental stages. (MJP)

From a study of students in 7th through 12th grade it was concluded that salient external features of the problems, as well as factors related to the solver largely influence students' responses to the problems. The theoretical framework, however, is not the most influential factor in determining students' responses to the problems. (PR)

Addresses NCTM recommendations regarding nonroutine problem solving. Illustrates general approaches, teacher discourse, and aims of problem solving via three nonroutine problems. Compares expert and novice approaches to problem solving and applies procedures endorsed by Polya regarding problem-solving strategies. Includes nine additional…

Deficits common among secondary students with learning disabilities or mathematics deficiencies are considered, along with a strategy to teach upper level mathematics, such as algebra or calculus. The strategy involves use of a mentor to help students to comprehend mathematics vocabulary, develop their own problem-solving strategy, and create a…

The Mediated Learning Program (MLP) is a comprehensive preschool curriculum for children with and without disabilities, based on theories of mediated learning, with a mediator facilitating children's thought processes and problem-solving strategies. MLP includes 19 curriculum units broken into specific daily principles or objectives used to teach…

Constructivism, which holds that knowledge is created out of each individual's own experience, is recapturing researchers' attention. To constructivists, teachers are not omniscient oracles, but nutritionists providing an environment for children to grow their own knowledge. Students might learn division by planning a field trip instead of…

Presents four case studies of fifth grade teachers who have implemented the Jasper Woodbury Problem Solving Series, a videodisc problem-solving curriculum, in their classrooms, and proposes a model for problem-solving instruction. Discusses curriculum and teaching styles before and after the studies. Teacher interview questions are appended. (JMV)

Presents an overview of case-based instruction and a description of how this method might apply to teaching instructional design. Benefits of case studies are reviewed, including promoting professional and personal growth; challenges for instructors and participants are considered; and guidelines for the development and use of case studies are…

Presents performance assessments, written by a team of Wisconsin science teachers, designed to see if students know, have practiced, and are able to perform the skills associated with science problem solving. (JRH)