This study investigated cognitive constructs to be measured by word problems in algebra. One performance-based assessment was administered to 290 high school students. Students' responses were scored by three scoring systems: the correct/incorrect criterion (0/1); a holistic scoring rubric (0-4); and an analytical scoring rubric for measuring…

The purpose of this exploratory experimental study was to examine how online cognitive facilitation that promotes cognitive presence, while keeping facilitator's social presence constant, affects student learning and satisfaction in an online community of inquiry. In this context, we explored the following questions: (1) Does online high cognitive…

Describes how behavioral and cognitive psychologies regarding language learning can be synthesized in the teaching of written composition to students learning English as a second language. (MM)

Contains a list of 46 references. (RB)

Investigated qualitative features of proportional reasoning on dimensional intensive variables by sixth- (N=116) and eighth- (N=137) grade students. These features included types of comparison and types of strategies employed. Results based on the administration of four proportional problems, varying in numerical and referential content, are…

Reviews three alternative cognitive approaches for verbal comprehension. Discusses a theory of learning from context and cites empirical data to support the theory. Presents a componential framework for understanding verbal comprehension and suggests that the ability to acquire information from context is a key source of individual differences in…

Provides a design for teaching group counseling leadership skills involving cognitive knowledge, group leadership techniques, membership participation, and supervised leadership experience in a single course for graduate students. Course evaluations have indicated students benefit from the group participation and leadership experience. (JAC)

Investigated the efficacy of self-administered cognitive therapy (RET) in the treatment of high and chronic social anxiety in 45 college students. Results indicated that self-administered cognitive therapy significantly decreased social anxiety and fear of negative evaluation and also suggested a generalization of effects as trait anxiety…

Investigated use of concept and Vee-mapping strategies with regular seventh- and eighth-grade science students (N=155), focusing on changes in student acquisition of science knowledge and problem-solving performance. Includes methods of teaching Vee mapping, evaluating the maps, anectdotal records of Piagetian clinical interviews, findings, and…

These two reaction papers provide a synthesis of the issues raised by the papers presented in this issue of the "Elementary School Journal." Each reaction paper approaches student variables from a different vantage point, and each brings a novel and imaginative perspective to the study of students in the classrooms. (MP)

A mature understanding of the natural world requires experiential learning. Significant experience provides a constant source of values and understanding. Experiential learning is a holistic process, where conceptual, linguistic and perceptual elements are blended with direct impressions of the environment. Experiential knowing is not fixed but is…

Discusses five instructional strategies for increasing the meaningfulness of technical or scientific information. These include organization of prose, use of concrete analogies as advance organizers, use of inserted questions in prose, elaboration activities such as note-taking and discovery learning. (JN)

Hemispheric preferences of high and low ability, right-handed elementary school children (n=70) were investigated using the Your Style of Learning and Thinking instrument. Results showed a significant difference between the two groups on integrated responses, with the high ability group having a higher preference for integrated functioning…

Reports on a classroom technique (social interaction) for improving fifth-grade students' performance in the task domain of controlling variables. The technique involved asking students why something happened, asking for justification/evidence, suggesting alternative explanations and asking for evaluation of the same, and accepting explanation…