The Future Problem Solving process engages middle school students in real-world issues by creating a multidisciplinary "think tank" environment requiring them to apply both divergent (brainstorming, creativity, flexibility) and convergent (analysis, synthesis, evaluation) strategies to political problems. The process can accurately…

Describes a computer simulation which enables principals to understand how to implement instructional leadership practices. The article recommends that staff developers view instructional leadership from the perspective of problem solving and strategic thinking. Six suggestions for leadership development are provided. (SM)

The Future Problem Solving (FPS) Program assists students in acquiring better thinking, communicating, and problem-solving skills. Concepts built into the FPS process include the freedom to elaborate, respect for others and their ideas, providing a problem-solving framework, considering global concerns, and encouraging students to think about…

Describes a class activity using graph theory in the form of finding the least number of firehouses needed to serve a town as mapped by a series of points and lines connecting the points. Notes that the third graders eagerly attacked the problem, and themselves suggested that the problem could be used in grades 2-8. (RS)

Discusses the factors affecting the course of conflict as the orientation to the conflict of the parties involved, their personalities, the issues, and the conflict's sociocultural patterns. The article concludes with a discussion of the skills involved in constructive solutions and offers suggestions for research. (GLR)

Explores the implementation of total quality management in the maintenance and operations department of an upstate New York school district. Four figures illustrate the problem-solving process. (MLF)

Discusses the benefits for students and communities of service-learning experiences. Briefly describes student efforts to formulate and solve community problems as part of the Expeditionary Learning project (Massachusetts), which calls on adults and students to embark on experiential learning "expeditions" to renew themselves as…

A study investigated the effectiveness of incorporating discussion groups and problem solving in a first-year pharmaceutical dosage-forms course. Students responded positively to the group discussions focusing on problem solving and the discussion summaries, which demonstrated the diversity of approaches to problem solving and focused their…

Describes a teaching framework combining culturally sensitive and culturally specific perspectives to prepare students for cross-cultural clinical social work. Three components are (1) an overview of social constructivism; (2) exploration of culture and self to encourage openness to cultural diversity; and (3) a social-constructivist approach to…

Discusses ways in which new technologies, including multimedia and the World Wide Web, support and enhance a range of skills associated with deep-level processing and meaningful learning such as metacognition, problem solving, and critical thinking. Argues that these technologies are underestimated in their capacity to facilitate intellectual…

Explores what creative drama is, why it should be included in the teaching of both expository and creative writing, and how language arts teachers can implement creative drama activities to increase student success in writing and to improve learning. Describes how using creative drama to enhance creative writing restores authority to students for…

Discussion of ICAE (Intelligent Computer Aided Education) systems focuses on Magix, a prototype ICAE system for use in problem-based learning in linear mathematics for 10- to 12-year olds. The system integrates the principles of constructivism, user-driven interaction, knowledge-based systems, and metacognition. (Author/LRW)

Examines a two-week summer program using problem-based learning and behavior therapy to help adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes improve their ability to cope with obstacles to dietary management. Improvements were observed in self-efficacy, problem-solving skills, and self-reported coping strategies. No significant changes were observed…

Describes a project in which students photograph animals overnight at an outdoor site. Presents directions for building the camera stand and integrates the activity with writing. Lists some photographic tips. (YDS)

Interpersonal conflict is a fact of daily life for the dean. Examines how conflict can be altered into a source of constructive change. Delineates three myths about conflicts. Describes sources of conflict in higher education between administrators and faculty and students and faculty. Describes new approaches to dealing with conflicts. (VWC)