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…

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;…

Assesses the effects of explicitly teaching for transfer by broadening the categories by which students group problems requiring the same solution methods and prompting students to search novel problems for these broad categories. This transfer treatment was combined with instruction on solution methods. Improvement on immediate- and near-transfer…

Argues that the typical school psychology approach of solving problems one student at a time will not be successful in impacting the big problems of illiteracy, technological and mathematics deficiencies, writing, and problem solving. Proposes that the need to build academic competence and resilience through early intervention and prevention…

This article discusses seven ways to develop spiritual intelligence, including: think about goals and identify values; access inner processes and use visualization to see goals fulfilled; integrate personal and universal vision; take responsibility for goals; develop a sense of community; focus on love and compassion; and take advantages of…

Research findings indicate that grade retention leads to problems in student self-esteem and raises the dropout level. A transition grade between kindergarten and first grade is also considered harmful to students. Cites changes in different states' retention policies. (MLF)

A review of research on the school consultation process as it relates to handicapped students focuses on issues in case problem solving, establishing and maintaining effective consultant-consultee relationships, and evaluating consultation outcomes. Topics discussed include interpersonal variables, relationship building, managing consultee…

Discusses social and cognitive influences on understanding and solving word problems. Descriptions of studies with elementary school, secondary school, and college students highlight subject matter-related attitudes; the fact that students can solve problems without understanding them; and contextual expectations, including the issue of authority.…

The discovery of penicillin is cited in a discussion of the role of serendipity as it relates to scientific discovery. The importance of sagacity as a personality trait is noted. Successful researchers have questioning minds, are willing to view data from several perspectives, and recognize and appreciate the unexpected. (JW)

Questions are raised about the effectiveness of the traditional lecture method in meeting the objectives of optometric education, and the use of problem-based learning as an alternative approach is examined. (MSE)

Defines instructional roles of dynamic visual displays (DVDs), including animation and interactive video, and provides guidelines for using them in media-based instruction. Topics addressed include theoretical bases; examples of strategic applications of DVDs; six instructional conditions for using DVDs; and considerations for the design and…

This article reviews common curricular alternatives for addressing the science education needs of secondary students with learning disabilities. A curriculum revision method emphasizing models and context-rich problem solving is proposed as an alternative to the traditional uses of direct instruction, mnemonics, graphic organizers, and study…

Children are exposed to violence in media and everyday life, which may promote aggression as a means to solve problems. Skills and strategies of problem solving, conflict resolution, and peace making can be learned through well-organized and frequent exposure to literature. Books that deal with misunderstanding, jealousy, playground skirmishes,…

Presents a review of literature on programing in Logo, including prerequisites of programing, cognitive effects of programing, stages of programing, and levels of programing expertise. An analysis of the literature establishes the need for operationalizing problem solving with Logo, and a research strategy to meet this need is suggested. (32…

This paper reviews the present state, recent trends, and prospective lines of development concerning applied problem solving, modeling, and their respective applications. Four major trends are scrutinized with respect to curriculum inclusion: a widened spectrum of arguments, an increased universality, an increased consolidation, and an extended…