Describes the process of problem-based learning (PBL), discusses the history of the movement, and analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of PBL. Explains the advantages of PBL in developing desirable attributes in biochemistry graduates which include being able to generalize, being able to interpret data, and possessing knowledge of relevant…

Presents a historical and content background of the metric system. Describes 1 of a series of integrated hands-on lessons for grades 4-7 to teach the measuring of volume with metrics. Provides a worksheet for the lesson and a concept map of the metric system. (MDH)

Presents a series of activities that help students discover the Pythagorean Theorem and extension activities to explore various dissection proofs of the Pythagorean Theorem. Includes reproducible worksheets. (MDH)

Preservice elementary teachers worked cooperatively to explore the relationship between the measure of the central angle and the number of sides of regular polygons using the reflection of a line in a hinged mirror. The experience involved conjecture and experimentation, communication, and building connections between science, geometry, and…

As students observe plant growth, the questions that naturally arise can provide opportunities for student exploration and discovery. This guide presents a collection of activities for students in grades K-8 that turn students' questions into life sciences learning experiences. The guide contains four chapters, each with background information and…

The purpose of this report is to see what the literature has to say about motivation and group interactions, both with and without the assistance of computers. The ultimate purpose is to examine in detail how the emerging ideas can be used to enhance the teaching and learning of arithmetic using computers. This report is divided into the following…

The seven units developed for the Math Network Curriculum Project (MNCP) incorporate an active approach to the study of mathematics using microcomputers. The intent is to have students explore new concepts by experimenting with different situations. Most teachers of mathematics have not learned mathematics in an active way, and thus need to…

Presents a series of four worksheets to develop students' perception of spatial relationships. The tasks require students to use cubes to build models and describe the models by representing the front, right, and top views on grid paper. Provides reproducible worksheets. (MDH)

Discusses Vee mapping, a technique to assist students in categorizing the relationship between the conceptual and procedural aspects of science. Presents a study to investigate elementary education majors' (n=27) use of the Vee heuristic and concept mapping for the construction of knowledge; attitudes toward learning science in collaborative…

Presents an activity in which students develop science process skills by making inferences as to the contents of a "mystery" box from observations based on their sensory perceptions. Provides instructions for implementing and extending the activity. (MDH)

Technology means more than computers, especially in classrooms for young children. The K-3 technology curriculum should build on children's interest in making things, discovering how things work, and using tools to help accomplish tasks. To prevent computer misuse or overuse, principals must involve teachers in planning the technology curriculum.…

The National Student Research Center (NSRC) is dedicated to promoting student research and the use of the scientific method in all subject areas across the curriculum, especially science and mathematics. The NSRC facilitates the implementation of a nationally recognized, innovative, and highly effective approach to instruction called the Student…

This booklet is one in a series on different education topics intended to help parents make the most of their child's natural curiosity and become an integral part of reaching the National Education Goals as set forth by the President and governors in 1990. The book suggests ways that parents can generate interest in mathematics in children aged…

This study investigated the effects of Oregon's Lane County "Problem Solving in Mathematics" (PSM) materials on middle-school students' attitudes, beliefs, and abilities in problem solving and mathematics. The instructional approach advocated in PSM includes: the direct teaching of five problem-solving skills, weekly challenge problems,…

OUTDOOR EDUCATION IS NOT AN ADDITIONAL SUBJECT IN THE CURRICULUM, BUT IS A WAY OF LEARNING IN WHICH THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT IS EFFECTIVELY USED TO TEACH THAT PART OF THE CURRICULUM THAT CAN BEST BE TAUGHT OUTDOORS, AND TO VITALIZE OTHER PARTS THROUGH FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCES. THE 363 SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES IN THIS BOOK ARE DESIGNED TO PROVIDE…