Describes the cyclical nature of a problem-solving sequence produced from observing children involved in the process. Discusses the generic qualities of science: (1) observing; (2) inferring; (3) classifying; (4) predicting; (5) controlling variables; and (6) hypothesizing. Explains the processes in use and advantages of a process-led course. (RT)

Describes directions for constructing "racing" cars out of simple materials like spools and coffee cans. Discusses procedures for students to build cars, then to test and race them. Stresses that the activity allows for self-discovery of problem solving techniques and opportunities to discuss the scientific concepts related to the activity. (TW)

Presents a rationale for teaching inquiry skills and describes a learning module which was designed to develop inquiry skills and provides a realistic view of the nature of scientific research for secondary science students. Explains the module's evaluation procedures and results. (ML)

Civilization, Colonization, and SimCity are three CD-ROM simulation programs that provide authentic learning experiences for elementary and secondary level social studies. Benefits include a problem-solving design structure; student-controlled experiential learning; transferrable skills; and improvement of cognitive skills and reading…

Presented are six activities that help to promote critical and creative student thinking. Activities include discrepant events and questioning, divergent thinking, dilemma discussions, and drawing objects from symbols. Activities can be adapted to any science discipline. (KR)

Argues that secondary economics teachers must help students learn to apply fundamental economics concepts to real problems. Advocates the critical thinking approach. Outlines goals, objectives, content, and procedures for an inquiry lesson that teaches the concepts land, labor, and capital through a problem-solving, hypothesis-testing method.…

Examines what children learn from using educational technology in an informal, collaborative environment. Explores how mastering educational computer programs can promote problem-solving transfer. Studies at three after-school computer clubs reveal children who use educational software may learn content knowledge about computer literacy,…

Discusses Project YES, a model of urban programming that provides youth with a support structure wherein their voices about pressing social issues can be heard by a wider audience. Youths participate in project-based workshops in which they develop critical-thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and consensus-building skills. (GR)

While the definition of learning disabilities has been the subject of controversy for decades, the current federal classification system identifies three specific areas of deficit: reading, written language, and mathematics and maintains the presumption that the disabilities are a result of a central nervous system dysfunction. In contrast to the…

Two components of multimodal anger control training were compared in a randomized study. The first component, social problem-solving training, utilized the techniques of cognitive restructuring, attribution retraining, and solution generation that targeted social-cognitive deficits implicated in anger and aggression. The second component, social…

At most land-grant universities in the USA, Introduction to Soil Science is traditionally taught using a combination of lecture and laboratory formats. To promote engagement, improve comprehension, and enhance retention of content by students, we developed a problem-based learning (PBL) introductory soil science course. Students work in groups to…

This text reviews academic, emotional, motivational, and social learning theories that help children to be their own teachers and teachers to be aware of the advantages of taking charge of one's own learning, rather than depending on teacher education methodology. Learning is described as more than learning facts and figures or directive…

This study investigates the effects of computer-aided videodisc-based anchored instruction on promoting elementary school students' problem-solving skills in Taiwan. Anchored instruction combines theories such as situated cognition, cognitive apprenticeship, cooperative learning, and constructivist theories. With the help of interactive videodisc…

An attempt was made to increase selected aspects of critical thinking skills of children in a school-age child care program through staff planning of specific program activities using typical activities that would normally occur in these programs. Increased staff members' awareness of their role in facilitating the development of children's…

This guide is intended for use in a course in on-the-job communication that was developed as a component of a workplace literacy program for persons employed in the manufacturing and service industries. The course is structured so that, upon its completion, students will be able to accomplish the following: identify different personality types and…