The role of negative instances in conjunctive feature identification tasks was investigated. Results support the classical favoring of positive over positive/negative for equal frequency of irrelevant features (l:l) but positive/negative over a positive for unequal frequency of irrelevant features (9:1) (p<.05). (Author)

A total of 192 second- to sixth-grade children, showing three different levels of class-inclusion answers (failure, correct answer based on counting, correct answer based on logical reasons), performed four necessity tasks. Results are discussed with reference to individual and constructive generalization processes. (Author/RH)

The hermeneutic circle uses theory-practice interaction in three methods--science, critical theory, and poetics--in an effort to contribute to the continual search for greater understanding. (JN)

Investigates the asserted differences in reasoning between adults and second, fourth, and sixth graders in a manipulation of variables task using class inclusion and story problems with common everyday situations. Results are discussed in terms of sensible reasoning and problem-solving skills. (CM)

The reasoning practices employed by students in the classroom are examined to display how they "know" something. Focus is placed on the interactional practices by which learning tasks are accomplished during classroom lessons. (JMF)

Two views of emotion in the writings of Paulo Freire are discussed. Freire views emotions as critical forces to be curbed if not eliminated. Emotions are also seen as a necessary part of that essential element of education for critical consciousness--dialog. (JN)

Three questions regarding the use of sign language as an alternative communication system for nonverbal autistic children are examined. Data on effects on speech, the upper limits of sign acquisition, and effects on adaptive function are discussed. (Author/CL)

Presents and defends the thesis that it is analogy which provides justification for any logic, and for any argument to the extent that it depends on logic for justification. Analogy acquires inept support from logic, but logic acquires adroit support from analogy. (JMF)

Results suggested that, when encountering difficulties in the problem-solving situations on the test, the retarded Ss tended to take the easiest or shortest path to a response by scanning a minimum amount of material. (Author/DLS)

Results showed that only 32 percent of adult female shoppers in a supermarket were able to use a proportional reasoning strategy to determine which of two sizes of a common item (size ratio 2:3) was the better buy. Performance declined when the ratio was more complex. (JMB)

This paper argues that morality is essentially a matter of rational reflection and judgment and has little to do with feelings or affections. The notions of reason and justification are analyzed. Four types of feelings are defined and shown to provide inadequate bases for moral judgment. (Author/SJL)

In a study to determine procedural effects of volume conservation tasks performed by adolescent females, the results revealed that the LaVatelli water displacement test was significantly more difficult than the Elkind test or Piaget's test. (Author/RL)

Challenges studies supporting Kohlberg's claim of invariance in the development of moral judgment which maintain that subjects' preferred responses to moral dilemmas are based on higher stages of thinking. Findings indicate language rather than levels of thinking is a significant factor in subjects' response preferences. (CM)