Effective problem solving depends on adopting the appropriate frame of reference to guide the search for solutions. If the problem is mislabeled or the wrong frame of reference used, the chances for success are lower. (SK)

Introduces the Mystery Festival at the Shrewsbury Middle School in Massachusetts. Claims that this program will enable the children to collect and analyze data, carry out necessary tests, and develop a scientific approach to solving crimes. Describes the process of setting up this festival and recommendations for adapting the program to suit…

High school teachers and administrators are often shocked to learn that universities consider their graduates unprepared for college work. They're especially chagrined when their most successful students seem ill prepared for college work. Author Kevin St. Jarre proposes that secondary schools spend more effort on ensuring that students know how…

These proceedings contain the papers of the 14th International Conference on Cognition and Exploratory Learning in the Digital Age (CELDA 2017), 18-20 October 2017, which has been organized by the International Association for Development of the Information Society (IADIS) and endorsed by the Japanese Society for Information and Systems in…

The paper describes the integration of web resources and technology as instructional and learning tools in oral history projects. The computer-mediated oral history project centred around interviews with community elders combined with new technologies to engage students in authentic historical inquiry. The study examined learners' affective…

Each year, students in Kittanning Senior High School's Principles of Technology (POT) classes have a design challenge, usually beginning with CO2-powered or Maglev-powered vehicles and progressing to such challenges as soap-box cars or radio-controlled airplanes. The author's recent POT class challenged them with the most exciting challenge yet:…

Teachers and students alike have happily subjected themselves to a hanging-strings experiment, only to find themselves face-to-face with their own inability to break out of standard modes of approaching learning situations. Author used the strings problem as a theme in discussing the weaknesses of exclusively systematic education. (Editor/RK)

Presents us with two monks on a rickety bridge. What the monks, the author, and we readers do with that dilemma is the topic of a brief existential article that contains provocative views on how our heads affect our lives. (Editor)

Presents activities to demonstrate that current technology allows readily accessible representations in algebraic, numeric, and geometric forms. Argues that integrating these different representations into the curriculum helps students to think more critically about systems. Discusses problem solving using multiple representations, equivalent…

Discusses two controversies regarding instruction in critical-thinking: (1) definitions of critical-thinking skills; and (2) the design of instructional delivery systems that promote the generalized use of these skills. Suggests that teachers select specific skills to teach and define those skills with clear, objective descriptions based on overt…

Describes the immersion system using analyses problems which was developed to improve students' critical thinking skills in introductory biology courses. Presents examples for college level problem solving procedures. Analyses students' and faculty members' reactions to analysis problems. (YDS)

The application of knowledge in authentic learning situations involves steps like finding and focusing on the problem, gathering information, critically analyzing and effectively communicating the results. The change in the teacher's approach and encouraging use of enrichment clusters system among the students is discussed.

To succeed in college, career and life in the 21st century, students must be supported in mastering both content and skills. This Implementation Guide presents state leaders, policymakers and/or district and school leaders with assessment tactics and examples to assist in statewide 21st century skills initiatives. The Partnership for 21st Century…

In this article, the author describes how middle schools can prepare young people for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. Integrating 21st century skills deliberately and systematically into middle school education will empower educators to accomplish many of the elusive goals they have tried to reach for years. Twenty-first…

Engagement in the arts nurtures the development of cognitive, social, and personal competencies. When well taught, the arts provide young children with authentic learning experiences that engage their minds. To get children to think critically, teachers ought to become comfortable with the problem-solving process themselves. This article…