Discussion of dynamic modeling focuses on the development of a new modeling tool called Model-It which provides intentionally designed scaffolding for learners, enabling them to build and test dynamic models of complex systems using object-oriented and qualitative techniques. Classroom testing with high school students is described. (Author/LRW)

Asserts that Dewey's proposal that rich, engaged learning requires teachers to "psychologize" their subject matter, remains timely in today's education, especially given recent mathematics and science curricular reforms. The article contrasts his proposal with more subject-centered reforms, explaining how teachers must understand…

Examines the role of prior intention and knowledge in the comprehension of "forget" by young children. Results reveal that children initially have two interpretations of "forget": an unfilled desire and a state of not knowing. Discusses explanations for the late comprehension of "forget" in terms of representation of knowledge and intention,…

An experimental lesson is described in which student teachers verbalized preconceptions about a natural object (mushrooms) and completed personal response activities about a poem entitled "Mushrooms." The approach stimulated enhanced awareness of mushrooms and more questions about growth and reproduction. Possible applications in…

Describes a study conducted at Seattle Pacific University that developed an attitude scale to measure student perceptions about online courses; explored relationships between student perceptions and demographic and other variables, including age, gender, online course experience, Internet experience, and computer skills; and investigated…

Describes a study that investigated the integration of distance education technologies into a preservice teachers' science methodology course. Highlights include a theoretical framework; effects of prior technology courses; effects of participation on student attitudes regarding the use of distance education technology; and correlations between…

Examines some of the misconceptions about the nature of critical thinking. Focuses on the characterization of critical thinking in terms of processes or skills and the separation of critical thinking and knowledge. Offers a different conception of critical thinking. (Contains 46 references.) (DDR)

Describes the Thematic Experience Approach, designed to build on positive experiences that enlarge the high school dropout's perspective while building self-esteem, background knowledge, and reading ability. Describes a sample unit dealing with legal rights as presented in a history class, a futures class, and two language arts classes. (RS)

Describes results of a survey of teachers belonging to the Texas Computer Education Association that was conducted to determine whether authoring tools were being used to develop software for computer-assisted instruction (CAI). Teachers' prior computer education and experience are examined, and the selection of authoring tools is addressed. (six…

Review of recent literature on learning-to-learn focuses on how to improve learning activities. Highlights include criterion variables that influence learning activities; prerequisites of learning, including prior knowledge, intellectual capability, environmental factors, and motivation; learning strategies; how to teach learning strategies; and…

Examined the effects of an instructional method used to remedy students' difficulties caused by fragmented and incorrectly interpreted knowledge. Described the method using explicit concept-interpretation procedures. Finds that the method helped to revise students' deficient prior knowledge about acceleration, and helped them to interpret it…

Examines the history of informatics in France and reports on a quantitative study conducted at a University Institute for Teacher Training (IUFM) to determine students' initial knowledge and opinions regarding information technology. Objectives related to information technology are discussed, and constraints on information technology related to…

Reviews "Teaching and Learning in History," calling it more appropriate for people interested in history as a discipline rather than school history imbedded within social studies. The volume provides more for readers examining cognitive science-based novice-expert studies than readers interested in guidelines for history teaching and…

Describes a study that investigated fifth-grade children's search behavior using an automated library catalog designed for children called the Science Library Catalog. Level of science domain knowledge was found to influence both their success and search behavior. (Author/LRW)

Describes a study of undergraduates at Aston University (United Kingdom) that investigated whether maps were an appropriate navigational aid for searching in a hypertext environment. Task performance, system use, previous computer experience, perceptions of the system, and cognitive map data are examined; and implications for hypertext system…