Attempted to verify knowledge regarding decimal and rational numbers in children ages 10-14. Discusses how pupils can receive and assimilate extensions of the number system from natural numbers to decimals and fractions and later can integrate this extension into a single and coherent numerical structure. (Author/MKR)

Presents findings of a study involving 34 undergraduates, examining how exposure to different belief structures might change an individual's belief structure. Suggests that, when the individual is high in public self-conscious, their belief structures will change after encountering different belief structures. Implies that public posturing can…

Presents two cognitive models that illustrate the commonalities between reading for meaning and solving mathematical problems with meaning. Discusses the importance of number sense in the prior knowledge component of the solving with meaning model and the implications of the models in teaching mathematics. (MDH)

This paper describes the design and implementation of a curriculum unit for English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) secondary school students by an ESL teacher and a computer studies teacher that sought to foster reading, writing, and computer skills. The unit is based on Mohan's (1986) Knowledge Framework, a conceptual framework that systematically…

Discussed is the idea that students come into their lessons with already preformed notions for many basic astronomical events. Examples of students' responses during an astronomy lesson are included. Suggestions for uncovering students' alternative frameworks are presented. (KR)

This article describes the genesis and development of concept mapping as a tool for science education. It also offers an overview of this special issue of the "Journal of Research in Science Teaching" and comments on the current state of knowledge representation. Suggestions for further research are made. (49 references) (Author/PR)

Describes how three biology textbooks present content related to photosynthesis through construct of elaboration. Concept maps were created for each textbook. Results are discussed in terms of quantity of elaboration, relevance of ideas used to elaborate major concepts, relationship of nature of elaboration to intended readers, and general…

A mapping procedure based on the SOLO Taxonomy developmental model was used to classify the problem-solving strategies of students (n=34) in grades K-2. Only one multiplication problem was used to isolate three components of the problem-solving procedure. (MDH)

Kindergarten (n=30) and grade 1 (n=15) students of contrasting socioeconomic backgrounds were interviewed to assess their knowledge of number word sequences and spatial patterns and their ability to recognize numerals and use counting to establish numerosity of visible and screened collections. Findings indicate greater variation in abilities…

Discussion of computer programing at the secondary level focuses on automation and schema acquisition as two processes important in learning cognitive skills such as programing. Their effects on learning outcomes and transfer of training are examined, the importance of worked examples is highlighted, and instructional design principles are…

Argues that the dichotomy between domain-specific and general theories of cognitive development addressed in the "Merrill-Palmer Quarterly" special issue is unproductive. Suggests that polarities of generality and specificity exist in creative tension as seen through developmental processes. (Author/BB)

Identified is research related to concept formation; the chronology of identity and equivalence conservations; the relationship of mental age to performance on number concept tasks; perceptual, attentional, linguistic, and social factors; and the potential use of cognitive developmental criteria as measures of ability for both normal and retarded…

Presents a knowledge representation model that was designed for instructional decision making. Topics discussed include classification models for instructional design; artificial intelligence; semantic networks; natural language; and data models, including network and hierarchical models. An example is given of knowledge analysis for a secondary…

Discussed is the use of concept mapping as a tool to enhance meaningful learning for college autotutorial biology students. Student attitudes toward concept mapping is described. The correlation between SAT scores and concept mapping was investigated. (KR)

Discussed is a constructivist model of science learning and its possible use in the treatment of science misconceptions. Science learning as conceptual and methodological change is described. (KR)