Instructors must be steadfast in their intent to alter conventional transmission models of instruction and to embed reading and writing fully in subject area learning so that avid reading and writing become a natural part of all classroom activity. One instructional model offering engagement of students with material is the constructivist…

This project was designed to address gender issues in mathematics education. The author's findings led her to conclude that students construct their own understanding and knowledge as a result of activities in the classroom. Constructivism, a theory of knowledge based on the idea that people construct their own realities by interacting with the…

Presents an article featured in the March issue of "Mathematics Teaching" that discusses the necessary components of active learning in mathematics classrooms. Considers constructivist framework for analysis of mathematical learning activities that need to be carried out with consideration of aspects of presentation, the nature of pupils' mental…

Shares experiences of teaching probability from a constructivist perspective. Discusses the role of cognitive conflict, teaching the unit, and evaluation processes. (ASK)

This book illustrates the breadth of theoretical and philosophical perspectives that can be brought to bear on mathematics and education. Part 1, "Constructivism and the Learning of Mathematics," contains the following chapters: (1) "A Radical Constructivist View of Basic Mathematical Concepts" (E. von Glasersfeld); (2) "Interaction and Children's…

Describes a mathematics teacher's experience and change from a traditional behaviorist dispenser of knowledge to a constructivist facilitator of meaning during professional development. Compares the stages of teacher development metaphorically to the stages of a butterfly. Contains 11 references. (ASK)

Discusses the importance of fostering critical thinking in chemistry. Presents strategies to improve critical thinking that were used in general chemistry for science and engineering majors, a similar course for less-prepared science and engineering majors, and a course for nonscience students. (JRH)

The task of making a career decision can seem daunting for many young people. Careers do not always follow a straightforward, logical trajectory, and chance events can define or change the course of one's career path. Youth may benefit from a learning environment designed to guide the imagining and inventing of their future. A wide range of…

A brief overview of the role of emotions in facilitating client change from a constructivist perspective is provided in this paper. With this background in place, several case studies will be discussed to illustrate the impact and role of emotions in facilitating change in counseling and career development. (Author)

Discusses how the constructivist approach to learning can aid in helping students to experience more meaningful learning. Discusses cooperative group learning and the concept of constructivism; constructivist teaching formats; and whether the constructivist approach works. (ZWH)

Presents created letters and responses from a character representing an authority to develop ways of teaching what constructivism is and ways to address the obstacles that teachers might face in adapting a mathematics reform and constructivist approach in the classroom. Contains 16 references. (ASK)

Presents a fun-filled activity in which students create the perfect Kool-Aid recipe. Incorporates chemistry, cooperative group skills, experimentation, and recording of results. (JRH)

Considers the idea of "intentional knowledge" and the difference in nature between "knowledge" as a construct of society, and 'knowing' as construct of an individual. Discusses how the theory of didactical situations differs from other constructivist theories with regard to the notion of "intentional knowledge." Uses two cases to illustrate the…

As instructors move further into the incorporation of 21st century technologies in adult education, a new paradigm of digitally-enriched mediated learning has emerged. This book provides a comprehensive framework of trends and issues related to adult learning for the facilitation of authentic learning in the age of digital technology. This…

This document focuses on how mathematics teaching and learning can be improved by developing more powerful approaches to connect thinking and mathematics. It proposes changing perspectives on what it means to learn and do mathematics and explores how these perspectives can be incorporated into the teaching of secondary school mathematics. Chapter…