To determine how hard it is for computers to solve problems, researchers have classified groups of problems (polynomial hierarchy) according to how much time they seem to require for their solutions. A difficult and complex proof is offered which shows that a combinatorial approach (using Boolean circuits) may resolve the problem. (JN)

Discusses an alternative approach to intelligence tests as a measure of intelligence. The approach is based on three classes of performance dealing with a person's choice of an internal representation for a problem, strategies for manipulating the representation, and abilities to execute elementary information processing steps required by the…

Reported is one researcher's efforts to solve a classic mathematical problem called the "sphere packing problem." The historical barriers to solving this geometry problem are discussed. (CW)

Discusses various aspects of artificial intelligence, focusing on three interrelated issues: (1) representation of knowledge, which is roughly the machine equivalent of human memory; (2) control and use of knowledge, which corresponds to human abilities in problem solving and planning; and (3) the acquisition of knowledge, or what humans call…

The idea that females may be born with less mathematical ability than males is explored. Data from Benbow and Stanley, as well as from the Education Commission of the States, are considered. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Interpretation).

Presents evidence that the psychological principles that govern the perception of decision problems and evaluation of probabilities and outcomes produce predictable shifts of preference when the same problem is framed in different ways. (Author/SK)

Focuses on human information processes and problem solving. Although a large body of knowledge is prerequisite to acquiring skill, the authors state that knowledge must be indexed by patterns that guide the person in a fraction of a second to relevant parts of the knowledge store. (Author/SA)

Reports that a congenitally blind child, as well as sighted but blindfolded children and adults, can determine the appropriate path between two objects after traveling to each of those objects from a third object. Explores relationships of finding to geometric principles underlyinq innate spatial knowledge and inferential ability. (Author/CS)

Describes an artificial intelligence system known as SOAR that approximates a theory of human cognition. Discusses cognition as problem solving, working memory, long term memory, autonomy and adaptability, and learning from experience as they relate to artificial intelligence generally and to SOAR specifically. Highlights the status of the…

The American Association for the Advancement of Science is involved in projects to capitalize on resources the scientific community can share with schools. Projects and sponsors include "The National Forum for School Science" (Carnegie Corporation), "Challenge of the Unknown" (Phillips Petroleum), and "Science Resources…

Describes Canada's International Development Research Centre (IDRC), an independent public corporation established to aid scientific research in developing nations. The four programs executed by them are agriculture, food, and nutrition sciences, health sciences, information sciences, and social sciences. (Author/SA)

Highlights findings from cognitive science which suggest new approaches for science and mathematics instruction, addressing role of naive theories and qualitative understanding of situations in problem-solving. Also considers nature of the learner based on the findings. (JN)

Cites changes to occur on the Medical College Admissions Test to include: a reduction from six to four sections, biology and physics content-specific sections to absorb chemistry, elimination of multiple-choice questions to a problem-solving format, and the inclusion of graded essay questions. (RT)

Traces the history and function of State, Operator, And Result (SOAR), a general-purpose artificial intelligence program for solving problems. The SOAR can "chunk" the result of a subgoal and learn from previous experiences. The SOAR could be applied to various expert systems. (YP)

Describes the current states of artificial intelligence in education and assesses probable future developments and problems. Reviews the National Science Foundation's strategy to aid research in the area. (JM)