Investigated a beginning mathematics teacher's beliefs about problem-solving while finishing preservice training and how these beliefs affected, and were affected by, the first three months of teaching. Analyses revealed conflicts between the teacher's idealism and the reality of classroom practice, as students were not always receptive to…

This study identified and examined the validity of a Brunerian theory-based, aptitude-enhancing, standardized educational simulation by assessing spatial visualization ability of students assigned to simulation and non-simulation treatment groups. Results indicate the simulation increased high aptitude learners' efficiency (and initially…

The need to change higher education to respond to the demands for continuing education is discussed, and the contributions of three groups to the facilitation of learning through learning-centered and problem-based curriculum design are examined. (MSE)

This study investigated the efficacy of using the advance organizer as a device to improve medical students' understanding of a clinical case simulation on the microcomputer and to enhance performance on a posttest. Advance organizers were found to be effective and most consistent with Mayer's assimilation theory. (MBR)

Identifies themes in this special issue on educational technology: emergence of new educational technology definition; pervasiveness of educational technology throughout world; importance of context in applying educational technology to problem solving; and new information technologies' role in altering organizational structure and teachers'…

Discusses the evolution of current decision support systems (DSS) computer software and their potential for use in assessing cognitive ability. Current applications of computer software for structured and unstructured problem solving are examined together with the feasibility of computerized adaptive testing. Characteristics of computer-based…

This study investigated the degree to which seventh- and eighth-grade students of different abilities acquired strategic planning knowledge from a problem-solving computer game called Wumpus. Regression analysis was used to determine the influences of individual differences and either activating or modeling instruction, and to assess transfer of…

Examines the hypothesis that there are preliminary stages in problem solving that are often neglected in teaching chemistry. Discusses correlations calculated between the student's ability to handle disembedding and cognitive restructuring tasks in the spatial domain and ability to solve chemistry problems. (TW)

Describes a teaching game designed to train clinicians about effective management practices and strategies. Provides the goals and objectives of the same, along with the specific instructions for participants involved in this simulated operation of an imaginary health center. (TW)

How calculators can enhance problem-solving abilities is discussed. Examples of calculator table-building activities that span the gap from arithmetic to algebra in middle schools are given. Percent, area and perimeter, and exponents are the focus. (MNS)

Explains the difference between everyday thinking and academic thinking. Maintains that children who experience academic learning problems may rely too much on everyday thinking skills. Relates examples of this problem in reading, mathematics, and science. (JDH)

Geometric activities for junior high school students at the first levels of the van Hiele model of geometric learning (recognition, analysis, and ordering) are discussed. Illustrative problems are included.

Today's educational software has transcended original drill and practice functions to provide enjoyable learning experiences through simulation, tutorial, and special education programs that develop reasoning and problem-solving skills. Teacher and administrator effectiveness can be enhanced by lesson design, scheduling, attendance, grade…

Using data from several western nations, this article maintains that policy analysis has over-emphasized policy substance and neglected the influence of the political process. Focuses specifically on how political and institutional constraints influence policymaking in the Federal Republic of Germany. (JDH)

Using Latin American examples, this article examines the influence of four types of constraints (technological, cultural, clientelistic, and political) on bureaucratic-authoritarian, liberal-democratic and neo-patrimonialist regimes. Maintains that policy will be more effective if aided by an understanding of these constraints. (JDH)