Investigated development of propositional logic and three formal logical schemata (underlying generic problem solving processes/operations) in adults (N=59) enrolled in their second year of medical school. Two students were formal on the 12-Piagetian tasks used, and the 57 remaining were classified as transitional formal. Implications are…

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…

Examines several possible difficulties in interpreting the results of studies which employ Piagetian tasks, especially conservation tasks, with older individuals. Notes that Piaget's clinical method allows more flexibility in the assessment of competence than do more quantifiable techniques. Examines the possibility of task misinterpretation by…

The roles and uses of symbols in mathematical thinking are discussed. The thinking process is further subdivided into specialization, generalization, and reasoning. (MP)

Some potential difficulties involved in using "real-life situations" in teaching problem solving are illustrated with a racing car problem. The importance of developing mental images and the ability to abstract in the solution process is indicated. (MP)

Geometric matrix problems were presented to 11- and 14-year-olds and adults to investigate latency to solution as a function of number of elements (1-3) and of transformations (0-2) that had to be considered for correct solution. At all ages latencies increased as the number of elements and number of transformations increased. (Author/DB)

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)

It was concluded that repeated review is more beneficial to deaf than to hearing students, and that it selectively affects memory tasks (recall and recognition) more than tasks requiring higher level processing (concept acquisition and problem solving). (Author/DLS)

Faced with a problem in which the probability of obtaining the correct answer was 70 percent, 2 of 23 kindergartners and 18 of 19 second graders generated an appropriate strategy. When the probability of a chance correct response was reduced to .45, 23 of 35 kindergartners generated an appropriate strategy. (Author/GDC)

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)

Discussed are science activities appropriate for middle school students. Considerations include the degree of abstractness of the concepts and the need for increased class time for explaining, discussing, and integrating students' activity experiences. (DS)

Three experiments (which used adults and 14-year-old children) studied the congruence between textual input at encoding and output in the form of memory reproductions. Results verified a very close correspondence between encoding and retrieval regarding hierarchically structural operations on the information in simple stories. (AN)

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 paper divides achievement in chemistry into five independent factors: cognitive, affective, problem solving, routine manipulative skills, and observational modes. The study explores the relationship between student performance in these areas and their responses to a Cognitive Preference Test in chemistry. (RE)

Examines whether an approach to teaching Logo programming that directly guides college students in use of cognitive monitoring skills and the transfer of those skills leads to increased cognitive monitoring and problem-solving skills. Demonstrates that guided instruction led to increased comprehension monitoring and contributed to the development…