Describes the ways in which a problem-based learning (PBL) approach to teaching precalculus can prepare students for calculus by helping students develop a conceptual understanding rather than learning through symbol manipulation and memorization. Discusses the exponential, trigonometric, polynomial, and rational function modules employed. (NB)

Describes a simulation called, "Classroom City," used by elementary students to learn about communities. Focuses on the students' own simulated city named Bat Town, U.S.A. Discusses the project in detail. Describes the activities children participated in and the roles they assumed during the simulation. (CMK)

Defines problem-based learning (PBL) as an instructional method in which problems provide the context for students to develop skills and knowledge. Describes a study that examined whether students perceived that PBL courses were more effective than non-PBL courses at helping them develop specific outcomes. Reports that PBL students' perception of…

Investigates the effects of learning mathematics in a cooperative small-group setting on different types of student interactions in low-level ninth-grade classes. Findings indicate an increase in students' activity, a shift toward on-task verbal interaction, various opportunities for students to receive help, and positive attitudes toward the…

Describes a variation on a problem from the history of mathematics in which the class is divided into cooperative learning groups of four students each. Each group is challenged to find a procedure for resolving the situation with several solutions emerging. Emphasizes the importance of examining "incorrect" answers and discussing the…

Describes how a community college teacher of an essay-level developmental writing class improved the quality of writing groups in the class. Discusses how she researched writing groups and cooperative learning; developed lesson plans for several class meetings; revised the structure of the groups after observations and feedback from students; and…

Recent research in mathematics instruction underscores the importance of problem solving and higher-level thinking. This article presents four themes in instruction for students with learning disabilities: (1) provide a broad, balanced mathematics curriculum; (2) engage students in meaningful problem tasks; (3) accommodate diverse learning styles;…

This interpretive study of a Year Six classroom in North Queensland, Australia focuses on how two contrasting groups of children designed ill-defined engineering structures. The collaboration processes within the research team are explored. Classroom-related findings are also reported. (AIM)

Describes Project Friends, a mixed-age classroom of kindergartners, first graders, and second graders, including its beginnings, significant features (such as use of integrated thematic curriculum and "clubs"), and outcomes. Asserts that the program has empowered children for learning and encouraged helping relationships among children.…

Research has shown that the classroom social environment is a chief psychological determinant of academic learning. A recent study showed students who gave their classrooms high ratings on cohesion, challenge, satisfaction, and absence of friction and favoritism on the Learning Environment Inventory achieved more academically, had better attitudes…

Cash games are simulation activities which feature real cash prizes and explore interpersonal skills and concepts. EASY MONEY is one such game, featuring an investment activity which focuses on trust among team members in ambiguous decision-making situations. Directions for administering the game and suggestions for applying a standard six-phase…

Reports findings, based on a two-year study, of a collaborative effort to develop a learning-centered curriculum which would result in an inviting learning-centered classroom community. Supports the tenet that effective programs feature knowledgeable teachers who have the expertise and inclination to encourage all children to succeed. (RJM)

Experience with student teams working on policy analysis projects indicates the need for faculty supervision of teams in the process of addressing complex issues. The problem-solving approach adopted in one policy analysis course is described, including assignments and tasks, issues and sponsors, team dynamics, conflict management, and the…

The effectiveness of a conflict resolution program was examined in a rural public elementary school in Ontario (Canada). Results with 111 seventh and eighth graders support the effectiveness of the conflict resolution training and indicate that the training generally had more effect in a cooperative learning condition. (SLD)

Suggests that classroom activities that emphasize interaction help students to use language. Interaction allows students to practice being effective speakers by developing two needed sets of skills: managing an interaction and negotiating meaning. Provides examples of problem solving activities for use in the language classroom. (Author/VWL)