Presents findings from a case study of one fifth grade student's efforts to construct meaning in her science class during a unit on light. Contends that students' efforts to construct meaning may suggest instructional approaches that guide learners to consider and grasp scientific explanations while still valuing their own insights and abilities…

Classroom techniques (collaboration, mentoring, emphasis on problem-solving) used in supplemental instruction (SI) for chemistry at Saint Xavier University (Illinois) are detailed, the role of SI leader and supervisor are examined, and a small-scale (n=219 students) study of student perceptions of the program is reported. (MSE)

Reports part of the results of the Design, Development, and Assessment in Mathematics Education Project that tested the booklet on descriptive statistics called "Data Visualization" in six experimental algebra classes in Whitnall, Wisconsin. Describes examples of problems presented, use of cooperative learning during instruction, and…

Provides 5 activities for levels K-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, and for the family that incorporate data collection and interpretation in the decision-making process. Activities investigate taste preference, voter preference, meal preference at the school open house, three close presidential elections, and questions about the years and dates of presidential…

Described is an alternative first year algebra program developed to bridge the gap between the NCTM's Curriculum and Evaluation Standards and institutional demands of schools. Increased attention is given to graphing as a context for algebra, calculator use, solving "memorable problems," and incorporating geometry concepts, while…

Identifies linkages between social inquiry and artistic thought to show interdisciplinary possibilities for kindergarten through high school social studies instruction. Argues expression through modern dance helps students integrate personal experience and social phenomena. Provides a lesson in which elementary school students choreograph their…

For comparison with tests and curriculum in the United States, excerpts from mathematics sections of university entrance examinations in Japan are presented. The impact of tests tightly tied to curriculum is discussed, and test results are summarized. Sample student responses to the examinations are also reviewed. (SLD)

Discusses the use of games to learn mathematics both in the classroom and at home. Games promote nonroutine learning, cooperative learning, problem solving, communication, and reasoning. Included are store-bought games, games made specifically for educational purposes, and multicultural games. A table lists many common games and their uses. (JAF)

Describes the urban-centered WalkAbout summer program, which involves hands-on service learning emphasizing the importance of students being authentically invested in their own learning. Program goals include increasing academic achievement, providing opportunities for community-based learning, developing a service ethic in youth, and improving…

Describes design and use of the PBL Evaluator, a computer-based method of evaluating dental students' clinical problem-solving skills. Analysis of Indiana University students' self-, peer, and tutor ratings for one iteration of a course in critical thinking and professional behavior shows differences in these ratings. The method is found useful…

Background: To test effectiveness of a parenting intervention, delivered in a community-based voluntary-sector organisation, for reducing conduct problems in clinically-referred children. Methods: Randomised controlled trial, follow-up at 6, 18 months, assessors blind to treatment status. Participants--76 children referred for conduct problems,…

In this paper, we suggest that case-based resources, which are used for assisting cognition during problem solving, can be structured around the work of narratives in social cultural psychology. Theories and other research methods have proposed structures within narratives and stories which may be useful to the design of case-based resources.…

Principals can easily validate the tension of opposites thinking. Their work is filled with paradoxical dilemmas and days in which the questions are complex and void of definitive answers. In an attempt to balance the often antithetical needs and expectations of the students, the faculty members, the community, and the district office, the…

In this article, the author describes the Violence Prevention Through Cooperative Learning (VPTCL) project. Developed in 1999 by the Hawai'i Friends of Civic and Law Related Education, this hands-on program aims to support at-risk secondary school students and help them learn problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills. These skills are…

Traditional instructional methodology in the Information System Design (ISD) environment lacks explicit strategies for promoting the cognitive skills of prospective system designers. This contributes to the fragmented knowledge and low motivational and creative involvement of learners in system design tasks. In addition, present ISD methodologies,…