By providing an example problem in solving sets of nonlinear algebraic equations, the advantages and disadvantages of two methods for its solution, the tearing approach v the Newton-Raphson approach, are elucidated. (CS)

A systems approach to developing and designing social work curricula is discussed. Systems principles are discussed in connection with both the process and the outcomes of curriculum building. Pragmatic principles that can guide and enable complex systems to change are stated. (Author/MLW)

Defines the term "shyness" and provides data regarding its prevalence. Discusses the relationship of shyness to other psychological problems and describes attempts to treat it in brief psychotherapy. The general goal of treatment is to provide patients with a problem-solving approach to interpersonal difficulties. (JMF)

Presents the mathematical background for solving eigenvalue problems, with illustrations of the applications in computer programing. The numerical matrix treatment is presented, with a demonstration of the simple HMO theory. (CS)

Described is Project Reach (Reaching Educators and Actualizing Children) which is designed for gifted students, and includes exercises in productive thinking, student participation in planning, decision making, forecasting, communication, creative problem solving, and mind stretching. (KC)

Describes a modular approach in which students are taught about complex systems and problem solving through computer simulation and immediate feedback. (SK)

Discusses some prominent applications available today for most microcomputer systems, including: teaching computing to all students, the computer as a problem solving tool, games, drill and practice, simulation, and testing. (Author)

School programs in social and emotional education seek to increase student self-awareness, help students deal with their emotions and interpersonal relationships, and improve social decision-making abilities. A schoolwide social-education program at a Providence, Rhode Island, academy focuses on overall school climate, specially designed events…

Spreadsheet programs are used increasingly by engineering students to solve problems, especially problems requiring repetitive calculations, as they provide rapid and simple numerical solutions. This article shows how advanced spreadsheet programs are used in the learning of numerical solutions of two-dimensional diffusion equation using the…

Defines program implementation and discusses its implications. Describes eight components of effective program implementation which fall under four broad categories: (1) communication; (2) involvement; (3) evaluation; (4) commitment. Shows how these components can be linked directly to the six steps of traditional analytic problem-solving. (AEF)

Describes an NCTM Standards-based high school mathematics curriculum that involves application, technology, cooperative learning, and open-ended problem solving and compares student attitudes and achievement with a traditional class. Results indicate significant attitude improvement in the mathematical confidence of students in the experimental…

Presents ways in which thematization can be used to control hortatory rhetoric, including varying the complexity of thematic structure and varying the amount of discourse participant themes. The article examines how different choices of thematic progression as text organizers can produce different effects and finds correlations with the…

Introduces the concept of designing World Wide Web pages that facilitate information seeking and problem solving; describes a model for information problem-solving and techniques for applying the model to Web page design; and lists Web page design guides, both online and print resources. (Author/LRW)

Argues that the key distinction of a situated approach to studying intelligent behavior is not the method used but the focus of the investigation, specifically the unit of analysis. Discusses contemporary approaches to assessment, collaborative problem solving as an assessment context, situated assessment, intentional dynamics, and interaction as…

Argues that many of the needs youth have are determined by where and how they live. Suggests youth services providers should take a constructivist approach by helping communities and organizations create services that provide and nurture caring attitudes and behaviors. Presents recommendations for modifying cultures and organizing caring…