In all areas of human activity, decision-making based on data analysis is very important. As the availability of data grows, it becomes critical to educate not only traditional students but also those individuals who are now in the workforce, as many of them are expected to manage the complex data streams and to provide evidence and guidance for…

Faculty who offer university-level technical courses through e-Learning environments must surmount several difficult challenges. Traditionally, learning in technical courses takes place through real-time interactions between instructor and students in the course of solving actual problems--a form of activity that is not possible in asynchronous…

The goal of this article is to contribute fragments of concrete understanding to the on-going search for meaning in ideas associated with the learning sciences (Sawyer, 2006b) by adding to the repertoire of domain specific studies pertaining to this relatively new field. The learning sciences are first characterized as a system of learning…

Discusses inquiry-oriented learning and the role of technology in interactive learning environments. Highlights include instructive environments; constructive environments, for constructing knowledge; communicative environments; situating environments, for problem-solving authentic tasks; and three examples of interactive learning environments.…

Reviews the development of artificial intelligence systems and the mechanisms used, including knowledge representation, programing languages, and problem processing systems. Eleven books and 6 journals are listed as sources of information on artificial intelligence. (23 references) (CLB)

Computer algebra systems are frequently used for research. In addition, some instructors have based entire advanced courses around these systems. One benefit is that they allow students to become familiar with the methods of calculus by individual experimentation. However, instructors have generally seen computer algebra systems as unsuitable for…

Describes the application of case analysis to a learner-centered microcomputer-based instructional model. Topics discussed include the use of computer-based case analysis with adult students; case planning; and two sample cases, one a decision-making model and one a technical model. (21 references) (LRW)

Identifies six needs assessment procedures applied in educational and other organizations, provides examples of how each is used, and discusses the relationship of needs assessment to problem solving. Kaufman's Outcomes Model is described and the Organizational Elements Model is presented as a pragmatic approach to contemporary decision making and…

Reports on the use of closed circuit television as a critical component in the process of in-service teacher training for implementing alternative teaching methods. A five-step problem solving scheme is used to describe the specifics of this project. (Author/JEG)

Discusses the evolution of current decision support systems (DSS) computer software and their potential for use in assessing cognitive ability. Current applications of computer software for structured and unstructured problem solving are examined together with the feasibility of computerized adaptive testing. Characteristics of computer-based…

Discusses the need to consider the cognitive models of students and their learning processes when designing computer tutorials, and describes a tutorial designed to teach students how to generate algebraic equations for story problems. Testing and revisions of the tutorial, with both college and high school students are described. (14 references)…

Describes and evaluates two projects designed to update elementary and middle school mathematics programs: (1) the revision of elementary school's mathematics and computer literacy curriculum; and (2) an inservice program to train middle school teachers how to incorporate computers, calculators, and manipulatives into the classroom. (CLB)

Much of traditional schooling in America is built around systems of compliance and control, characteristics which stifle the creative and entrepreneurial instincts of the children who are subjected to these tactics. This article explores a different approach to education, one that involves capturing the interest of the student through the use of…

In the Community of Explorers Project (CoE) high school teachers and students engaged in scientific problem solving using advanced network technology and innovative pedagogy. Analysis of e-mail indicated the important effects of organizational and occupational cultures on the application of technology in classrooms and on the development of a…