In the past, algorithm animation has yielded mixed results as a teaching tool in computer science. This article presents a study in which undergraduates at George Washington University (DC) viewed algorithm animations and then programmed the same algorithms. Results suggest that combing the two is an effective way to use animation and to produce…

Secondary mathematics teachers participated in a problem-solving course in which technology became a means to develop as teachers and as problem solvers. Findings indicate a delineation between technical competence and metatechnology--thinking about how and when to apply technology to particular problems. (PVD)

Describes a mathematics fair prepared by the University of Missouri Mathematics Teachers Organization (UM2TO) which includes games involving numbers and computation, logic puzzles, geometry and spatial-visualization exploration, and probability and statistics activities. Presents tips for developing a mathematics fair. (ASK)

Calculus can be taught using meaningful problems and active participation, with provocative problem situations and large-scale projects. An Ithaca College (New York) introductory calculus course uses this problem-based learning approach to develop understanding of central concepts (differentiation, integration, approximation) with less of the…

This study found no differences in content acquisition (as measured by a standardized test) of 167 gifted 10th graders in American Studies classes who received either a problem-based learning approach or traditional instruction. Results did not support the common assumption that curriculum fostering higher order thinking skills inevitably results…

Analysis of the evolution of the regulatory process in federal student aid looks at the ability of stakeholders to influence results and concerns about overregulation. Alternative regulatory approaches, considered less burdensome, are examined, and the appropriateness of using student financial aid policy to achieve social and political objectives…

Hypothesizes that organizational problems in second-language (L2) writing may result from the employment of first-language (L1) drafting strategies. The article maintains that research in L2 writing processes has not paid attention to the conditions for the transfer of L1 composing strategies into L2 writing. Pedagogical implications are…

Discusses the use of computer-aided instruction (CAI) packages in promoting active student learning. Describes the development of a CAI package that highlights discussion of real engineering cases and students' ability to transfer knowledge to new engineering problems. Concludes that the students' problem-solving skills can be improved with the…

Discusses the need for efficient ways to handle school conflict issues so they do not disrupt the learning environment or lead to a decrease in teacher job satisfaction. Presents findings of a study examining elementary school teachers' attitudes toward conflict resolution, their implementation of conflict resolution programs, their job…

The nation's educational system mirrors the dynamics of our marketplace democracy, recasting parents as self-interested consumers. Jane Addams' philosophy of education (enhancing people's productive capacities to benefit the commonweal) has been revived in Public Achievement, a work-centered, civic-earning program in St.Paul, Minnesota, that helps…

Presents activities which highlight major concepts of linear programming. Demonstrates how technology allows students to solve linear programming problems using exploration prior to learning algorithmic methods. (DDR)

Examines events that facilitated collaborative school-university research within a Professional Development School (PDS). Analysis of observation notes from school visits, records of schools' work with university liaisons, and surveys of PDS and school faculty indicated that PDS teachers highly valued sharing knowledge with colleagues. Several…

The success of the Community College of Philadelphia (Pennsylvania) transfer program is in part the result of the approach taken to institutional conflict. The institution's academic culture has benefited from even the unsuccessful aspects of its efforts to structurally reform the academic program and the institutional culture. In the process,…

Discusses problem solving, problem-based learning, and collaborative learning, and describes a university study that investigated the effects of individual Web-based learning versus computer-mediated collaborative Web-based learning and ability grouping on learner performance in solving ill-defined problems. Considers time on task, participant…

Shows how teachers can move beyond holistic teaching by engaging students in critical learning. Appropriate activities include introducing a research topic, development of the research question, additional research, data analysis and report writing, presentation of the report to the class and making recommendations for possible action, and…