Identified difficulties encountered in spontaneous modeling, as well as strategies, approaches, and language used in this activity. Graduate mathematics students (N=223) were asked to create a mathematical model of a biological process. Their solutions and strategies are analyzed and results described. Significant conclusions for teaching applied…

Three experiments report additional evidence that it is a mistake to account for all interletter effects solely in terms of sensory variables. These experiments attest to the importance of structural variables such as retina location, array size, and ordinal position. (Author/PN)

Uses case examples to illustrate how cognitive-behavioral interventions can be applied to social work situations. Suggests by emphasizing the interaction of personal and environmental realities in influencing change, a cognitive-behavioral perspective of human functioning can provide a useful theoretical framework for direct practice in social…

Formulates a model for viewing the transitions and losses of the aging process as opportunities for growth and self-enhancement. Reviews major categories of social-psychological transition events. Summarizes social-psychological resources that aging individuals bring to these events and discusses three processes of adaptation to transition…

A description, reanalysis, and critique of a selected portion of data reported by Elstein and colleagues is reported. Data from the study of medical diagnosis using three simulations are evaluated in terms of technical properties and consistency with a psychological model of diagnostic inquiry proposed by the researchers. (MLW)

This article examines the potential contribution of latent trait models to the study of intelligence. Nontechnical introductions to both unidimensional and multidimensional latent trait models are given. Multidimensional latent trait models can be used to test alternative multiple component theories of test item processing. (Author/CTM)

Described is a model for planning and conducting an investigation designed to teach science process skills. Use of this model illustrates the generalizability of process skills and facilitates their inclusion in novel curriculum areas and beyond the classroom. (DS)

This paper reviews current models of problem solving to identify results relevant to teachers or instructional developers. Four areas are covered: information processing models, approaches stressing human abilities and factors, creative problem solving models, and other aspects of problem solving. Part of a theme issue on intelligence. (Author/SJL)

The information-processing approach and results of research on spatial ability are analyzed. Performance consists of a sequence of distinct mental operations that seem general across subjects, and can be individually measured. New interpretations for some classical concepts in psychological testing and procedures for abilities are suggested.…

The speed at which sentences with various kinds of violations could be rejected was studied. Compatible with the sequential model was the finding that noun-verb and adjective-noun double violations did not result in shorter reaction times than noun-verb single violations, although double violations were judged less acceptable. (Author/RD)

Between 24 and 26 children in each of grades 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11 (with mean ages of 8.5, 10.2, 13.0, 15.0, and 16.6 years, respectively) were tested in their ability to solve linear syllogisms. (Author/MP)

Describes and illustrates a new method, derived from social judgment theory, that enhances the quality of communication between the public and its representatives. (RL)

Describes the Cognitive Learning from Automated Instruction (CLAI) model. Discusses cognitive learning, learning from instruction, and automatic instruction; reviews instructional theories relating cognitive processes and instruction; and describes the CLAI model for developing intelligent tutoring systems (ITS). Illustrates a practical approach…

Presents a study based on the analysis of contrastive Swedish-English data on modal particles. The article maintains that the meaning of modal particles requires an analysis of their pragmatic aspects such as the relation between the interlocutors. The analysis most accurately accounting for the multifunctionality of the particles is based on a…

Presents a communication skill model developed on principles of communication and cognitive social psychology and offering a programmatic conception of communication needs, realized through language. The article offers an exploratory approach to such an integrated model and calls for research to test its benefits to language learners. (34…