Service-learning pedagogy rests on a stool of three legs: service, learning, and reflection. In this field, much has been written on service and learning, but not much has been written specifically about reflection. Given the critical role reflection plays as a bridge between service and learning, the goal of this article is to offer a brief…

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an experiential form of learning centered around the collaborative investigation and resolution of "messy, real-world" problems. This book offers opportunities to learn about problem-based learning from the perspectives of teachers, students, parents, administrators, and curriculum developers. Chapter 1 tells…

Trap setting is a concept based on a psycholinguistic explanation of the acquisition of second language skills emphasizing cognitive and creative processes over the auditory, visual, and imitative. It proposes that opportunities for repeated attempts at solving new problems through constant testing and retesting of creative hypotheses bring the…

This bulletin for kindergarten teachers comprises five papers about the use and value of play in the kindergarten curriculum. Topics discussed include the values of various pieces of indoor and outdoor play equipment commonly found in the kindergarten; the nature of young children and their learning; the definition of play; the teacher's role as…

This document begins with a discussion of the author's approach to instruction in a mathematics laboratory. This discussion includes an enumeration of types of desirable or necessary equipment and advice on the management of a laboratory. The author examines issues related to achievement and readiness for more traditional school experiences in…

The Action Socialization Experiences (ASE) presented in this guide are modified Outward Bound initiative tests developed at the New Jersey School of Conservation to be used as an introduction to group problem solving. The ASE process is described as follows: teachers are assigned a specific problem for a 2-hour period and briefed on techniques of…

Describes a "treasure hunt" exercise designed to encourage elementary students to think reflectively. Using compasses and maps, student groups find prehidden objects. Group discussion and oral reports follow the field experience. (KC)

Discusses briefly Piaget's views on intellectual development as related to science teaching. Describes intellectual activities observed in science classrooms and shows how specific science lessons can be designed to encourage cognitive development. (GA)

The classroom use of attribute blocks to develop thinking skills is defended in this article. Divergent-productive thinking is identified as an important skill that can be developed by using these blocks. However, teacher commitment and involvement in the program is considered necessary. Suggestions for using these blocks are included. (MA)

This book illustrates how problem-based learning (PBL) can enliven curriculum and lesson planning by encouraging students to play a more central role in their own learning process. It provides a framework for efficiently and effectively teaching problem-solving skills, tapping children's interests and previous knowledge, and making the curriculum…

This section concerns pattern recognition activities related to the properties of cubes and is suitable for reproduction in worksheet and transparency form for classroom use. (JP)

Eighteen staff members from Roselle Park (NJ) High School were the first faculty group in New Jersey to experience a workshop to acquaint them with the Wild Cat Mountain Wilderness Center and improve communication, trust, and enhance problem-solving skills. Challenging activities, suitable to the area, are described. (CM)

A description of a planet in the shape of a cube where everything was built from squares and parts of squares is presented. The story is used as a background for several paper folding exercises that explore several geometric shapes. Solutions to the problems stated are included. (MP)