Determined whether chemistry students (N=332) understood analog tasks that could be used for teaching the mole concept. Also identified possible difficulties that students might have in solving mole problems. Seven major conclusions are reported and discussed, including the finding that two-step problems were more difficult to solve than one-step…

Discusses the concept of quality, relates quality to four themes of the evolving science curriculum, and examines implications for science teacher education. The four curriculum development themes focus on problem-solving skills, the cultural heritage, a conceptual framework of the realm of science, and moral/ethical issues resulting from…

Discusses collaborative work as part of the school reform movement. Includes case examples of five collaborative programs. Also provides a list of guidelines for developing collaborative programs. (MD)

TK!Solver is a general purpose problem-solving tool allowing users to enter sets of equations that characterize problem areas in a variety of mathematically-oriented fields (finance, engineering, physics, economics). Indicates that this latest version alleviates problems found in the initial version, in particular with speed, now faster in all…

Proposes novel methods of solving mechanics and dynamics problems by changing frames of reference. Uses these ideas to pursue Einstein's notions of inertial and uniformly rotating reference frames, gravitational and inertial mass, and the gravitational bending of light in relation to the simple original problem. (JM)

Science educators are encouraged to adopt teaching techniques to help children learn to solve problems through inquiry or discovery. Included are several sample problems and method for finding other appropriate science related problems. (SL)

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has produced a distance learning series of four 60-minute video programs with an accompanying Web site and companion teacher guides designed for students in grades 3-5. The story lines of each program or episode involve six inquisitive school children who meet in a treehouse. They seek the…

This book endeavors to show elementary teachers how to integrate mathematics, science, and technology in a cooperative learning environment. The reason for detailing this approach is to help students become creative and critical thinkers. Throughout the text there are numerous inquiry-based, thematic activities specifically designed to promote…

This paper reports on the formative evaluation results of the project "Enhancement of Problem Solving and Scientific Reasoning Skills through Computerized General Chemistry Modules." This project includes the design, development, and implementation of two interactive computer modules for the enhancement of mathematical and problem…

This book attempts to review and extend current knowledge and perspectives on scientific problem solving by utilizing the framework of cognitive science. While the focus of the monograph is toward problem solving, its ultimate goal is the improvement of science teaching. Twelve chapters address problem solving in a variety of science content…

This teacher's guide, with accompanying videotape, presents an episode of the NASA SCI Files. In this episode, one of the tree house detectives has had an accident and cannot get into the tree house. Using problem-based learning, the rest of the gang investigates the world of simple machines and physical science and "pull" together to…

This book explores individual cognitive processes and the psychology of scientific discovery. Nine studies are presented that investigate childrens' and adults' attempts to make scientific discoveries from a theoretical perspective. Contents include: (1) "Investigating Scientific Thinking: Why and How"; (2) "Scientific Discovery as Problem…

Discusses a new method of presenting the scattering theory, including classical explanation of cross sections, quantum mechanical expressions for phase shifts, and use of a computer to solve problems. (CC)

Discusses the procedures of conducting skill sessions in the teaching of physics to undergraduates. Indicates that the interim method can help students in acquiring necessary skills to solve problems but needs further improvement to become more useful. (CC)

Article discusses educational benefits of science hobbies, citing specific accomplishments of British students. New courses in Engineering Science and recent development of scientific investigation and technological classroom projects are noted. Author relates how students have solved specific practical problems, such as devising games to develop…