Use of problem-solving skills in various classroom situations are discussed. Demonstrates that the thinking level of assigned problems, type of examination questions, example-type problems in class, time factor in examinations, grading, help outside of classroom, and behavioral objectives are all areas where problem-solving skills of students can…

An instructional program based on expert-novice differences in experimental problem-solving performance was taught to grade six students (N=265). Performance was assessed with multiple-choice and open-ended measures of specific transfer. Between-group comparisons using pretest scores as covariate showed treatment condition students consistently…

Original thinking was examined in 142 middle- and lower-class children across a wide range of age (7-13 years) and intellectual ability (low average to gifted). The instruments were lenient and stringent solution-standard measures of original problem solving and two subtests of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. (Author/PN)

Finds that Agatha Christie's mysteries can be used to encourage discussion of characterization and human values, to promote reading and literary analysis skills, and to develop both writing and problem-solving skills. Suggests several language arts activities. (MM)

Surveyed what industry looks for in applicants for laboratory positions at bachelor's level, job opportunities, promotional opportunities, if continuing education is fostered, and how undergraduate curriculums can be improved to produce graduates with needed skills. Findings (among others) indicate that all employers stressed importance of…

A project in Papua, New Guinea provided a computer-based learning environment for primary school teachers. Its goals were to: (1) help inservice teachers gain skills and confidence needed to teach mathematics and problem solving; and (2) determine conditions that influence the success of computer inservice education in developing countries. (PP)

Suggests that although school counselors cannot conduct family therapy, brief interventions with functional families can be successful. Presents a checklist for evaluating family functionality in terms of (1) time frame of problem behavior; (2) family structure; and (3) problem-solving skills. Problem solving and communication skills are…

Describes the application of a management concept called Quality Circles to educational settings. Suggests the use of Student Life Improvement Circles involving student volunteers who consider problems dealing with student life. Presents two examples of the techniques, one focusing on process and the other on task. (JAC)

Identifies and discusses barriers in the helping relationship that are erroneously labeled resistance. Proposes a transactional perspective to illuminate social and organizational barriers to the helping process. From this view an essential professional function emerges, responsibility for dealing with obstacles to the counselor client…

The important contribution of economic analysis in the legal classroom is not as a set of rules to solve legal problems, but as a way to provide a different perspective on underlying social arrangements with which the law is concerned. (MSE)

"Compupoem" is a program that helps students write poems, emphasizes process/product, and encourages divergent problem-solving. A description of the program, sample student session, and an example of a completed poem are provided. The Computers and Poetry Project which produces elementary/secondary-level, interactive poetry-writing…

Discusses use of computer courseware in gifted programs, provides an overview of possibilities for using computers with gifted students, and reviews available courseware for drill and practice, tutorials, simulations, problem solving, and educational games, with particular reference to application for teaching higher level thinking skills.…

Describes work with kindergarten children to improve their development of estimation, decision making, divergent thinking, directionality, numerical concepts, and creative problem solving skills through learning to program and control the robot Big Trak, a truck which moves along the floor in response to their commands. (EAO)