A problem-solving network (flow chart) constructed for use in calculating titration is described. Points out that use of the network has greatly improved student confidence and skill in performing these calculations. (Author/JN)

A brief introduction to the broad field of curve-fitting is provided to help explain the reasoning behind least-squares data fitting, and also to provide useful equations for two functional forms of interest in chemistry. Appendices give program examples written in Fortran and detail the method of Guggenheim. (MP)

A study was conducted to determine if a group of eighth graders (N=26) who received environmental action instruction would exhibit more overt environmental behavior than groups who received environmental awareness instruction (N=21) or science instruction (control group). The study supported the action instruction. (DC)

Reports the findings of a study which examined the knowledge and problem-solving strategies used by 14 ninth grade biology students to solve three types of basic genetics problems. Concludes that although most students could solve problems correctly, they sometimes lacked meaningful understanding or could not interrelate concepts. (DC)

A model of memory developed by information processing psychologists is described, illustrating how such a model could be used to guide science education research on learning and problem solving. (Author/SK)

Describes a sequential problem solving method for teaching stoichiometry to high school students. Provides several sample problems. (CS)

A study to investigate one of the mechanisms teachers may use to convince themselves incorrectly that students have learned science concepts requiring formal operational ability is presented. The investigation indicates instructors may actually teach and test for memorization of algorithms rather than understanding. (MP)

Describes effects which produce the semidiurnal tidal bulges, using elementary methods, without reference to fictitious forces and without recourse to a potential. (Author/HM)

Three definitions of "back-to-the-basics" are given and discussed. The idea that science provides opportunities to practice the most "skill-thinking" is also discussed. (MK)

Discusses the SAGE project, a Biology II project in which students analyze a specific disease by utilizing Internet resources. Poses seven problems for students and includes solutions. (ASK)

Describes the Solutions model used at Shelley High School in Idaho which gives students the opportunity to gain practical experience while tackling community problems. This approach is built on the three fundamentals of an integrated curriculum, a problem-solving focus, and service-based learning. Sample problems include increasing certain trout…

Describes a problem-based human biology course for undergraduate nonscience majors. Discusses the nature of problem-based learning, effectiveness of problem-based learning in a nonmajors' science course, course development, and implications. Contains 14 references. (JRH)

Describes students' initial thinking strategies and investigates the influence of learning environments on progress, transfer, and retention of students' thinking strategies. Results indicate that students do not use scientific reasoning when first encountering the problem, but interaction with the learning environment increases the rate of…

Describes a course that uses current environmental quandaries to teach students how to think, analyze, research, question, argue, evaluate, write, and solve problems. Develops skills required for active, project-oriented learning and covers principles of critical thinking and rudimentary risk literacy. (JRH)

This paper advocates a philosophy of science teaching that embraces intellectual conflict, suggesting that it is important to engage students in productive intellectual conflict in order to teach for conceptual change. Presents two approaches that could actualize the philosophy of "teaching the conflicts" within science instruction. (SM)