Two experiments examined how learning from different media--real pulley systems or simple line diagrams--affected mechanical learning and problem solving. The first showed that subjects' learning improved equally in both cases; all subjects showed an increase in quantitative understanding as they learned; and subjects manipulating real pulley…

Presents performance assessments, written by a team of Wisconsin science teachers, designed to see if students know, have practiced, and are able to perform the skills associated with science problem solving. (JRH)

Discusses modifications of the usual lecture approach for a environmental geology course by including class discussion, class projects, and group projects which are designed to help students see the relevance of geology to their lives. Author claims that in this interactive approach both instructor and students become more actively involved in the…

Presents a motion problem that students in a college physics class are asked to solve and later asked to continue to analyze until they have stopped learning from the problem or the problem itself is finished. (MDH)

This study examined the differences in middle school students' (n=287) perceptions of science activities among three instructional approaches: (1) lecture-worksheet; (2) traditional laboratory; and (3) problem solving. Chi-square analysis of questionnaire responses indicated that, on seven of the eight questions, students responded more positively…

Proposes a science competition that stimulates student thinking and creativity in which groups of 4 students solve as many problems as possible in 30 minutes. Problems require students to make tools using only the materials provided. Provides materials in a sample tool kit, competition rules, and sample problems. (MDH)

Suggests that disinterest in physics occurs because students and adults can apply everyday concepts to solve problems without understanding the underlying physics concepts. Proposes Wagenschein's Exemplary-genetic Method to teach physics and illustrates the method with examples taken from history. (MDH)

Lack of student use of critical thinking operations can lead to faulty argumentation in discussing societal issues. Presents 12 common fallacies in student argumentation and discusses their implications for science education. (Contains 51 references.) (MDH)

Explores high school student's postinstructional knowledge about mass, volume, weight, and density in terms of what students need to know to successfully solve academic physical science problems. Presents definitions of the concepts, discusses hypothesized knowledge deficiencies, and suggests implications for instructional design. (Contains 31…

Argues that, in all subject areas, assessment trends are moving toward teaching concepts rather than teaching facts, and toward application of information and skills. Discusses how rubrics are helpful in specifying what criteria student performance and proficiency levels should be evaluated. Offers three rubrics (problem solving, group oral…

Focuses on issues related to safety, education, and entertainment in classroom demonstrations. Explains to preservice teachers how to conduct a demonstration to motivate students. Lists several elements that should be included for a successful demonstration which include purpose, planning, repeatability, simplicity, safety, visibility, and…

Briefly summarizes methods of presenting laboratory information. Suggests that approaching lab problems requires a combination of methods structured into a problem-oriented learning experience. Focuses on the relationship of the gloxysome to the chloroplast and the steps involved in solving the problem. (DDR)

Students value participation in meaningful research. They feel empowered when they effect positive change in their communities. They also have a strong affinity for frogs and toads, although they vehemently deny this at the start of the school year. In addition, most students recognize the value of using computer technology to solve world…

The 9th International Conference on Educational Data Mining (EDM 2016) is held under the auspices of the International Educational Data Mining Society at the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, in the USA. The conference, held June 29-July 2, 2016, follows the eight previous editions (Madrid 2015, London 2014, Memphis…

Upper-elementary students encounter a sometimes dizzying array of traditional and nontraditional texts both in and outside of the classroom. This practical handbook helps teachers in grades 4-6 harness the instructional potential of fiction, poetry, and plays; informational texts; graphic novels; digital storytelling; Web-based and multimodal…