Computer Supported Intentional Learning Environments (CSILE) is a project using computer software to promote the constructive processes involved in intentional learning. CSILE enables groups of students to build a collective database (knowledge base) of their thoughts, in the form of pictures (created by students using a color graphics editor) and…

Reviews breakthrough studies in the development of higher mental processes. These studies include: (1) influences on talent development; (2) the relative effects of tutoring, mastery learning, and conventional group instruction on student achievement; (3) the importance of cognitive prerequisites; (4) textbook organization; and (5) methods of…

Critiques five arguments cited in support of process science. Considers the problematic nature of the processes and consequent difficulties encountered in mirroring these processes. Suggests an alternative way of viewing physics education through a trio of types of knowledge which can be used as governing principles in shaping education. (RT)

Discusses the value of memorized factual material in science. Describes the use of mnemonic devices to facilitate memorization. Provides a list of 14 mnemonic devices commonly used in science other than ROY G. BIV, which is used to remember the colors of the visible spectrum. (CW)

Defines cognitive computer tools as software programs that use the control capabilities of computers to amplify, extend, or enhance human cognition; suggests seven ways in which computers can aid learning; and describes the "Learning Tool," a software package for the Apple Macintosh microcomputer that is designed to aid learning of…

Presents study findings which explored the effect of teacher reasoning level and teaching style preference on improvement in student-reasoning ability. Reports that students of concrete operational teachers and of inquiry teachers showed greater gains in reasoning ability than students of formal operational teachers and of expository teachers. (ML)

Tested the effectiveness of a program designed to teach children how to conduct and interpret a controlled experiment. Results indicate that the ability to control variables can be taught using the program (which consists of activities related to designing, building, and launching model rockets). (JN)

This digest discusses using strategy instruction to assist students with learning disabilities. It begins by describing strategy instruction as teaching students about strategies, teaching them how and when to use strategies, helping students identify personally effective strategies, and encouraging students to make strategic behaviors part of…

Improving reading instruction has been the primary focus at the Benchmark School in Media, Pennsylvania. This book describes the various phases of Benchmark's development of a program to create strategic learners, thinkers, and problem solvers across the curriculum. The goal is to provide teachers and administrators with a handbook that can be…

This volume is the flagship volume in a series on cognitive strategy instruction. While strategies instruction is particularly appropriate for the learning disabled, it is also very useful for normal learners, especially inner city and minority children. The series focuses on conveying strategies instruction methods for use with these children.…

This paper presents a comparative case study of two students learning in an urban environment but characterized by high motivation, effective discipline, small classes, generous academic support, counseling, and educational equipment. The primary question driving the study relates to the challenges to meaningful learning in a special science high…

A project was conducted in a military training setting to test the acceleration of the development of complex, technical problem-solving skills through intentional transfer of existing knowledge and skill to novel tasks. Sherlock 2, the model devised, consisted of high quality device models using illustrative equipment diagrams from actual…

Teaching critical thinking is what employers ask of educators and what teachers expect from their students. This paper attempts to reestablish the importance of critical thinking and how Valencia Community College's (Florida) critical thinking competency can be developed using several teaching models. A discussion is provided on the background of…

This article focuses on the cognitive development of community college students. According to the article, a student can develop higher levels of cognitive reasoning through curricular activities that include problem solving, analytic thinking, and synthesizing exercises. In problem solving, students first identify and define a problem, then…

Investigated the relationship between language learning strategies and second language proficiency for Korean students of English as a Second Language. Findings indicate that the relationship between strategies and proficiency was linear; strategies were significantly correlated with test scores; and cognitive and social strategies were more…