This introduction presents Active Learning Methodology, surveying its history, main existing tools and supporting evidence, with an emphasis on mathematics and higher education, in particular engineering studies. This work is part of the DrIVE-Math project, developing innovative mathematical teaching strategies in engineering studies.

Diagnostic assessment (DA) in language classrooms is reported to have a substantial role in providing immediate and quality feedback for remedial work that would improve learning (Alderson, Brunfaut & Harding; 2014; Hattie & Timperley, 2007; Huhta, 2008; Jang & Wagner, 2013). However, applying DA in class remains a challenge for many…

In this article the author argues that the major ills of our formal social institutions cannot be effectively addressed without abandoning the widely adopted model of planning, evaluation and accountability that focuses on the formulation and use of aims and objectives or--to use more recent parlance--targets. She provides some background…

Limited research and literature address online student disruptive behavior and the effectiveness of conflict management strategies to address these inappropriate behaviors. Through expanded offerings of online education, higher education institutions need to prepare strategically and intentionally for increased instances of online student…

This article reviews early literature (that is, up to mid-year 2013) about Twitter's use in the higher education classroom. Fragmentations are highlighted as a way of showing that the literature does not cohesively claim advantages or disadvantages of using Twitter as a teaching and learning tool. The article also points to the limitations of the…

Research skills are a valued commodity by industry and university administrators. Despite the importance placed on these skills students typically dislike taking research method courses where these skills are learned. However, training in research skills does not necessarily have to be confined to these courses. In this study participants at a…

Presents a rear-end car accident scenario to teach about forces and kinetic energy in a problem-based learning format. Includes four parts: (1) "A Bad Day for Sandy Dayton"; (2) "The Emergency Room"; (3) "The Facts of the Case"; and (4) "Judgement Day". Discusses the major issues of the questions, introduces scientific concepts, and initiates…

Outlines methods to prevent cheating in colleges by: (1) defining the problem; (2) describing physical arrangements of testing situations; and (3) stressing the importance of detection and retributions for academic dishonesty. The individual faculty member should control cheating. A "cheating" table provides suggestions for detecting and…

Two primary objectives were served in this study. Perceptions were identified for preservice teachers relative to: (1) the kinds of discipline problems with which public schools are confronted; and (2) the frequency utilization of a variety of methods of managing student behavior. A secondary objective was to identify significant differences in…

A four-stage teaching model that encourages students to use fiction as a source of mental imagery and insight into social work issues is presented. Teachers can use the stages flexibly for different courses and levels of student expertise. (Author/MSE)

Reports the results of a project that established a list of problems experienced by regular classroom teachers receiving mainstreamed children. Details the development of an approach through which assistance could be provided to teachers experiencing those problems. (FL)

It is proposed that algorithms and heuristics are useful in improving professional problem-solving abilities when contextualized within the academic discipline. A basic algorithm applied to problem solving in undergraduate engineering education and a similar algorithm applicable to legal problems are used as examples. Problem complexity and…

Review of experimental evidence concerning the effectiveness of problem-based learning suggests that the approach may not improve content-free problem solving; may initially reduce learning levels but fosters long-term retention; may enhance transfer of concepts and integration of concepts into clinical problems; enhances intrinsic interest of…

The format and production of the portable patient problem pack, a patient simulation method designed for problem-based learning, are described. Clinical and didactic applications and development of materials specifically for optometric education are discussed and additional information for designing optometry-related materials is appended.…

In an instructional exercise at the University of Newcastle (Australia), social work students, staff, and organizations role-play in a simulated city to solve complex problems in a realistic but safe learning context. Experience suggests the extended simulation technique is effective. (MSE)