One of the best tools for sharpening students' problem solving skills can be found in the mystery story, which calls for logical thinking, paying attention to detail, and distinguishing between facts and assumptions. Activities that can help to develop problem solving skills are described along with several references to mystery magazines and…

The problem "Given three planar points, find a point such that the sum of the distances from that point to the three points is a minimum" is discussed from several points of view. A solution that uses only calculus and geometry is examined in detail. (MNS)

The willingness of continuing educators to meet the challenge of studying the computer and using it to enhance the learning process will influence whether this generation of educators takes a step forward toward a respectable profession or a step backward toward a poorly paid skill. (Author)

Suggests ways for the regular classroom teacher to cope with learning disabled students in a mainstreamed setting. (AH)

Three mathematical problems are discussed to point out the need to use problems with more than one solution, but at least one readily available solution. As well as encouraging logical thinking, problems should involve pattern recognition and the generation of guesses to be tested. (MNS)

A method of using vector analysis is presented that is an application of calculus that helps to find the best angle for tacking a boat into the wind. While the discussion is theoretical, it is seen as a good illustration of mathematical investigation of a given situation. (MP)

Learning disabled (LD) children react to hurt and rejection by selecting from a number of poor choices, including giving up or throwing a tantrum. A teacher can help the LD child through a reality program which includes 10 steps to better control. (CL)

Suggests a system for classifying problems to help educators identify their problems and understand their complexity. Presents the Problem-Identification Matrix, which helps clarify the cause-and-effect relationship that exists in any problematic situation. (WD)

Presents an exercise for use in political science courses on the college level that requires students to solve a frequently occurring problem--the provision of a collective good and the allocation of its costs. To solve the problem, students answer questions such as "Why do we have governments?" and "What constitutes a just policy?" (Author/DB)

Provides a model and rationale for using folklore in the English classroom as a way to solve problems and enhance communication skills. (HTH)

Presents 21 ideas for helping children learn to do story problems in math. (SJL)

Argues that incrementalism's weakness is that it is another rational approach to problem solving when what is needed is a nonrational approach--creativity. Offers guidelines for improving creativity in oneself and in the work environment. (IRT)

Presents a mathematics problem involving speed of a walking student versus speed of light reflection in a high school hallway. (MKR)

Presents a classroom scenario in which a student concocts a unique solution to a standard circle exercise and the class attempts to verify if the solution works for all cases of the problem. (MKR)

Describes how Newton's Law of Cooling and the Method of Mixtures are used to solve the basic dilemma of whether to add the cool cream to the hot coffee or to let the black coffee cool down first and then add the cream. (ZWH)