Presents a position strongly advocating inquiry training in science for students at all levels, but particularly at the elementary level. (SL)

Provides a simple routine which allows first-year physics students to use programmable calculators to solve otherwise complex electrostatic problems. These problems involve finding electrostatic potential and electric field on the axis of a uniformly charged ring. Modest programing skills are required of students. (DH)

Describes a computer program used in an experiment in which the partial molal volumes of sodium chloride solutions are calculated as a function of concentration from densities measured with a pycnometer. The complete program listing (also available from the author on disk) and a sample run are included. (JN)

Presents a technique which aids students in solving static problems involving three or more torques about a given axis. The method is longer and equivalent to the standard method, but students experience success with this new way to treat the more complicated equilibrium problems. (DH)

Reports research findings on the relationship between play and science as complementary aspects of problem solving. The playful approach and the science approach are compared along with skills and attitudes necessary for solving scientific problems. Research findings and suggested actions on play in the classroom are summarized. (BC)

Outlines a problem-solving method for beginning chemistry students that utilizes specific, concrete steps as well as computer-assisted tutorials. The method involves an approach referred to as the Factor-Unit Method coupled with a graphical "road map" which allows students to trace problems from start to finish. (JN)

Discusses teaching the minimization of area and distance, such as finding the minimum length of expressway connecting four cities by using an analogy of a soap film between two Lucite plates. (MLH)

This paper presents an overview of research on physics problem solving using verbal protocols. It asserts that the understanding of physics problem solving strategies enables researchers to write computer programs, which can automatically solve physics problems without the users having to be experts in physics. This, in turn, can generate more…

Problem solving has been studied extensively for tens of years and is based on a set of generic steps. A content theme is needed for these generic skills to be used and theme-based learning was chosen to be the medium for the project Key Learning Community (KLC). This paper describes the implementation of the problem solving approach into the KLC…

Presents an application of the formulas of kinematics to the real driving situation, involving motion at constant speed and deceleration. Suggests the problem be used as an example in class, a homework assignment, or a test item. (CC)

Describes set of specific steps (procedural knowledge) used when solving monohybrid/dihybrid cross problems and extent to which students could justify execution of each step in terms of their conceptual knowledge of genetics and meiosis. Implications for genetics instruction are discussed. (JN)

Discusses steps to be executed when studying physiological systems with theoretical mathematical models. Steps considered include: (1) definition of goals; (2) model formulation; (3) mathematical description; (4) qualitative evaluation; (5) parameter estimation; (6) model fitting; (7) evaluation; and (8) design of new experiments based on the…

Describes a method of network analysis that allows avoidance of Kirchoff's Laws (providing the network is symmetrical) by reduction to simple series/parallel resistances. The method can be extended to symmetrical alternating current, capacitance or inductance if corresponding theorems are used. Symmetric cubic network serves as an example. (JM)

Lists 12 reasons why college students have difficulty solving chemistry problems and 12 suggestions for improvement. Lists were compiled from students in an introductory chemistry course. (SK)

Presents a mathematical game called the dinner-guest problem that deals with Steiner triple systems. (HM)