Volume 1 of this sourcebook is a compendium of information about tests used to assess critical thinking, problem solving, and writing. It serves as a tool for people who want comparative data about the policy relevance of specific student outcomes measured in these areas. An interactive version of Volume 1 allows users to specify their areas of…

This paper describes an assessment and evaluation effort occurring in the context of a middle school science curriculum development effort known as Learning by Design (LBD). The LBD approach builds on a body of cognitive science and professional education research that emphasizes learning from problem-solving experience. The assessment and…

This Achiever contains a brief summary on the results of two major international studies: (1) 2003 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS); and (2) 2003 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). In the 2003 TIMSS, American fourth- and eighth-graders significantly outperformed many of their international peers. In…

The Managing Independent Living Program develops in incarcerated females about to be released the skills in micro policy formation, evaluation, and implementation that will lead to their successful transition to the community. Micro policy analysts provide training and counseling in decision making and problem solving. (SK)

Describes a graduate or senior elective course combining fundamentals of surface phenomena with practical problem-solving structured around a series of case problems. Discusses topics covered and their development through acquiring new knowledge applied to the case problem, practical calculations of solutions, and applications to additional…

"TK!Solver" was designed as a personal computing tool to solve problems involving mathematical calculations and analysis. An in-depth review of this model building and problem-solving package is provided. System commands, applications (including data lists, plots/graphs, iterative problem-solving, present values), and other areas are…

Discusses constructive ways to use microcomputers as educational aids. Areas considered include software packages with graphics capabilities to help students visualize their work, programs fostering skill development (including problem-solving), microcomputer rentals, use of computers to learn programing languages, and others. (JN)

Raises questions about the widely accepted rationale of teaching scientific methodology in order to help students become better problem solvers in nonscience settings. Argues that it is better to teach problem solving skills within familiar contexts not complicated by difficult subject matter. (DC)

A large-scale computer managed training program in problem-solving in applied mathematics and basic physics for first-year medical students at the University of Leuven is described. Students do calculations away from the terminals, but are corrected and evaluated at terminals. Some tentative results are presented. (Author/MSE)

Describes a method of teaching problem-solving to engineering undergraduates at Coventry (Lancaster) Polytechnic. The teaching model, which consists of a series of component activities, employs a methodological approach to problem-solving in the area of engineering design. Applications of the model to other forms of problem-solving are briefly…

The difficulty many students have in solving complex problems stems not from a lack of mathematical skill but from an inability to visualize the problem. An appropriately-structured computer game may assist students in achieving this visualization and in solving problems better. A heuristic approach in programing one game is provided. (Author/JN)

Describes a practical, university level course which applies principles of social science and public administration to the engineering of social change. The course, modeled on the Michigan Department of Human Rights, provides realistic exercises simulating the operations of a real agency involved in social planning and policy change. (GC)

Classroom creative problem-solving activities were developed around clearly defined problems having many possible solutions and entailing a situation where reality is slightly skewed. Working in small groups, students role-play by becoming "experts" at the matter in hand. A group secretary keeps students accountable for their time. Problem-solving…

Describes Business Dynamics, a full-year high school course covering five units: human relations, decision making/problem solving, the working citizen, economics of work, and computer literacy. (SK)

Mathematical modelling and an example used with undergraduates were presented in part 1 (v17, n5, p212-18, 1982). A second example, Power from Windmills, is provided which has considerable potential for development both as a model and as a series of modelling experiences of increasing difficulty for students with different backgrounds. (Author/JN)