A growing body of empirical and theoretical work indicates that young children (grades K-3) have difficulties solving word problems because of deficient language and text comprehension strategies. Describes a computer simulation designed to model working memory demands in "bottom-up" comprehension of arithmetic word problems, offering a…

This paper examines nine school-based peer mediation and conflict resolution projects supported by four state health departments, describing differences in targeted students, project consultants, teacher and student training, teaching methods, curriculum content, mediation format, complementary strategies, project cost, and project evaluation. (SM)

This article describes a tense situation in which two middle school teachers had a fight in a public area on parent conference day. Another teacher and an educational psychologist present their views on how to handle such a situation, support teachers, and foster collegiality. (SM)

This article describes a project that involved two groups of able students (ages 11-14) identified by teachers to work on problems set by two local industries. The project was designed to enrich the curriculum by developing problem solving skills and understanding of the application of science and technology in industry. (CR)

Asserts that play is an important medium for young children's learning, one that contributes to the child's cognitive, physical, emotional, and social development. Discusses the qualities that distinguish play from other activities, the skills children develop from exposure to a variety of play experiences at home and in the classroom, and…

Discusses changing from fixed to flexible scheduling for school libraries and describes the process of change at two elementary school libraries. Highlights include the difference between information and learning; information literacy; problem-solving models; curriculum integration; collaboration between teachers and librarians; student needs; and…

This article describes the problem-solving model (PSM) used in the Minneapolis Public Schools to guide decisions regarding intervention in general education, special education referral, and evaluation for special education eligibility for high-incidence disabilities. Program evaluation indicates students received special education services earlier…

From a constructivist perspective, the World Wide Web offers students an opportunity to be engaged in sense making, problem solving, and open investigation of the learning process. Students have access to a wide range of information, can develop in socially relevant ways, and are empowered. Selected Web sites (i.e. the White House home page) are…

Explains structurally based therapeutic evaluation of drugs, which uses seven therapeutic criteria in translating chemical and structural knowledge into therapeutic decision making in pharmaceutical care. In a Creighton University (Nebraska) medicinal chemistry course, students apply the approach to solve patient-related therapeutic problems in…

Cognitive flexibility theory is a constructivist learning paradigm emphasizing real-world complexity and the ill-structured nature of knowledge. This article discusses the design of a multimedia program (Perspectives on Emotional and Behavioral Disorders) based on cognitive flexibility theory and presents quantitative and qualitative results of…

Mills College Children's School uses math journals, conferences, and a "congress" to promote mathematical reflections and problem solving among primary students. The program enhances the ability to explain math problem strategies and solutions orally and the ability to record solution methods and answers and use records for later…

A first grade teacher in a diverse school assessed students' abilities to solve nonroutine math problems by examining their problem-solving processes. Results show that allowing students to develop their own methods of problem solving helps them internalize the process and articulate their solutions to others, thus becoming teachers themselves.…

A constructivist approach to teacher education is needed so that students in schools can develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. To promote constructivism in schools, preservice teachers must engage in constructivist processes throughout their education. The paper describes a program that uses technology to integrate constructivist…

The Pennsylvania College of Optometry's experience in implementing problem-based learning, usually used in small classes, in a large group instructional situation in a traditional, subject-based optometric curriculum is described. Development of a modified approach, simulated patient problems, weekly quizzes, patient notes, large- and small-group…

Harvard Medical School's integration of a curriculum on health promotion and disease prevention is described. The case method was used for all teaching in the curriculum. Students worked together in small groups, addressing the issues raised by each case under the direction of faculty preceptors. (Author/MLW)