Proposes a model through which researcher/educators can identify critical issues which confront large numbers of persons in the society, find the facts from research relevant to the issues, integrate these findings, and, restate them in language appropriate to the persons affected. Presents innovative ways of disseminating this information.…

This investigation: (a) assesses developmental differences in children's estimation skills through normative data on performance on a variety of problems; (b) assesses validity of a proposed estimation model on the basis of children's performance; and (c) suggests modifications of the model as a guide to further research. (MP)

Teacher education programs have long attempted to teach students to follow a rational mode of thinking. Recent research on teacher thinking has shown that a gap exists between how teachers think and the rational model. Such research should be used to give teacher educators insight into how their students think and learn. (JN)

Discusses research in creativity with particular emphasis on the problems encountered in assessing creativity from a life-span developmental framework. Alternative developmental models and measures are discussed as future research recommendations for the assessment of life-span creativity. (Author/RH)

Materials designed to promote student investigation of factoring quadratic polynomials over the integers through using a physical model are presented. Pupils are expected to discover regularities that will permit them to factor such polynomials at the symbolic level. Worksheet masters designed for classroom use are provided. (MP)

Describes the reconstruction of a conventional thermodynamics curriculum using the Galperin theory of stage-by-stage formation of mental actions and Landa's description of the "through" systematization of knowledge, and discusses the generalizability of the procedures followed in developing the plan for instruction. A 33-item…

Three experiments examined what happens to reaction time to verify easy items when they are mixed with difficult items in a verification task. Subjects verification of simple arithmetic equations and sentences took longer when placed in a difficult list. Difficult sentences also slowed the verification of easy arithmetic equations. (Author/RD)

Reviews recent progress in modeling human cognition, in particular the use of computers in generating models. Topics covered include the information processing approach to cognition, problem solving, semantic memory, pattern induction, and learning and cognitive development. A 164-item reference list is attached. (JL)

Describes a perspective designed to examine the structure, function, and process of interpersonal communication to locate the major sources of problems in particular interactions. States assumptions of the perspective, defines the elements and processes of interpersonal communication, suggests ways to use the framework, and describes current…

Criteria for suitable research designs for use with large databases are suggested and analyzed. The advantages and disadvantages of several types of quasi-experimental designs are compared. Examples are taken from the authors' research with data from the Manitoba Health Services Commission. (Author/AL)

Progress at NCHEMS is reported on a project to develop indicators of institutional financial condition for higher education institutions. Three steps followed: (1) to develop a framework to reflect dimensions of an institution's financial condition, (2) identification of indicators to measure change in dimensions, and (3) testing of indicators.…

Four experiments compared three alternative models of linear syllogistic reasoning: (1) linguistic; (2) spatial; and (3) mixed linguistic-spatial. The mixed model, indicating the importance of both verbal and spatial ability, was supported by all four experiments, and for about three-fourths of the undergraduate students studied. (Author/GDC)

When statistics are the focus, consumer/consultant relationships are often strained. Therefore, decision points in the research and consulting processes are examined for ways to clarify and improve the consulting relationship. A model for analyzing statistical techniques to provide a graphic basis for negotiation is presented. (Author/GDC)

This ten classroom-hour instructional model for alcohol education focuses on cognitive information, affective instruction, and selected field activities to assist students in establishing physiological and psychological relationships in alcohol areas. This integration is organized to clarify values and instill responsible alcohol-related behaviors…

A model of scientific inquiry is presented, and several instructional strategies that encourage the hypothesis generation component are described. (JMF)