Self-explanation prompts in example-based learning are usually directed backwards: Learners are required to self-explain problem-solving steps just presented ("retrospective" prompts). However, it might also help to self-explain upcoming steps ("anticipatory" prompts). The effects of the prompt type may differ for learners with…

The goal of this article is to propose a framework for understanding the nature of "how people construct problems" by interacting with situations and subsequently to offer implications for instructional design and future research. We propose that people must interactively frame the components of a situation in order to establish the…

Existing research has revealed key factors influencing mathematical flexibility, defined as the capacity to understand, generate, and apply a variety of strategies in solving mathematical problems. However, there is currently a lack of an integrated theoretical framework to systematically consolidate various sources of individual differences in…

Process data from educational assessments enhance the understanding of how students answer cognitive items. However, effectively making use of these data is challenging. We propose an approach to identify solution patterns from operation sequences and response times by generating networks from process data and defining network features that…

Serious games are a growing field in academic research and they are considered an effective tool for education. Game-based learning invokes motivation and engagement in students resulting in effective instructional outcomes. An essential aspect of a serious game is the method of support for presenting the teaching material and providing feedback.…

Arithmetic problem solving is a crucial part of mathematics education. However, existing problem solving theories do not fully account for the semantic constraints partaking in the encoding and recoding of arithmetic word problems. In this respect, the limitations of the main existing models in the literature are discussed. We then introduce the…

Complementary to existing "normative" models, in this paper we suggest a descriptive phase model of problem solving. Real, not ideal, problem-solving processes contain errors, detours, and cycles, and they do not follow a predetermined sequence, as is presumed in normative models. To represent and emphasize the non-linearity of empirical…

In this integrative literature review, we synthesize the scant literature from the last 40 years of educational research on how school principals make difficult decisions. Reviewing 15 peer-reviewed articles, articles were coded for the methods used and their substantive findings. We review sampling techniques, the types of problems and methods…

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an innovative educational approach that dates back to the 1960s. However, the twenty-first century goal of sustainable education poses a challenge to PBL, especially as it relates to isolation. Here we discuss the underlying issue of isolation in three respects. First, the information-processing model of PBL depends…

Project-based learning (PBL) plays a critical role in fostering interdisciplinary integration within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. However, its complexity often hinders students' ability to apply knowledge and solve problems, particularly in environments that lack psychological and cognitive support. This…

Creativity and problem-solving are 21st-century skills that students must have to respond to the complex world dominated by technology. Teaching activities integrating Design Thinking (DT) have the potential to cultivate individual skills. As future in-service teachers, pre-service teachers need to understand DT so as to be able to use it in their…

This paper develops a method for the construction and evaluation of cognitive models to support students in their problem-solving skills during robotics in school, aiming to build a basis for an implementation of a tutoring system in the future. Two Wizard-of-Oz studies were conducted, one in the classroom and one in the lab. Based on the…

Even after many decades of productive research, problem solving instruction is still considered ineffective. In this study we address some limitations of extant problem solving models related to the phenomenon of insight during problem solving. Currently, there are two main views on the source of insight during problem solving. Proponents of the…

Despite decades of research on the close link between eye movements and human cognitive processes, the exact nature of the link between eye movements and deliberative thinking in problem-solving remains unknown. Thus, this study explored the critical eye-movement indicators of deliberative thinking and investigated whether visual behaviors could…

Research often examines cognitive load as it relates to direct instruction, worked examples and problem-solving combined as an integrated whole. The present study examines these strategies in isolation to see their effect on cognitive load. Using learning materials covering the basics of critical thinking to undergraduate law students (n = 160) at…