Discusses the progression of critical thinking skills from least difficult to most difficult. The hierarchy begins with "basic abilities," the next level is creativity and critical thinking, and the highest level is "problem solving." The entire process is called metacognition. Includes a chart outlining the developmental sequence and a list of…

Describes the use of microcomputer database management systems to facilitate the instructional uses of learning strategies relating to information processing skills, especially recall. Two learning strategies, cross-classification matrixing and node acquisition and integration, are highlighted. (Author/LRW)

Analysis of the spelling errors of three college students with varying writing abilities and a history of spelling problems suggests that students must be taught spelling remediation along with vocabulary development and writing, with emphasis on helping students understand the underlying logic and regularity of the writing system and effective…

Describes a project in which different kinds of pictures were used to promote children's thinking and language skills. (FL)

Argues that comprehension-monitoring strategies (e.g., establishing learning goals, assessing the degree of goal achievement, and modifying strategies to better meet goals) enhances student success. Describes an experimental course for teaching these learning strategies, the training and instructional methods used, key variables in the…

Five teachers used exploratory talk as a tool for learning as they developed policy concerning the use of writing across the curriculum. Transcripts were analyzed for development of scientific concepts (learning) through increased use of specialized vocabulary (language growth). (Author/MT)

Discusses several aspects of the relationship between teaching and learning in a way that may possibly stimulate thinking in the same manner as learning hierarchies, stage theory, and the abundant use of metaphor. (Author/JN)

This study focused on the developmental ability of 5, 7, ll, and 19 year olds to use a cognitive strategy to recall a series of eight movements under conditions of randomness, order, or randomness with training to organize. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)

This study investigated whether instruction aimed to heighten awareness of narrative structure would enhance fifth-grade children's use of story elements during comprehension and composition. Results are discussed. (Author/MT)

A model of generative learning suggests teachers must be aware that students learn what they construct from teaching, not necessarily what teachers are teaching. The study of student thought processes upon a base of neural, cognitive and educational research leads to improved instruction and furthers the goal of universal education. (MT)

This article looks at the brain as it is used in learning, considers how a better understanding of the brain can be used in education, and discusses the emerging role of the neuroeducator, a person able to understand the concepts of both brain function and good teaching. (MT)

Subjects in a study of analogic reasoning use in learning a computer language read text describing an invented LISP dialect and then solved problems and described language constructs. Five of six factors studied indicating use of analogy with a familiar computer language showed statistically significant results, supporting the hypothesis.…

Advances a view of instruction based on the nature of cognitive activity, school learning, and instruction and suggests relationships between the CEDARS, cognitive mediational, and task models of instruction. Discusses more than a dozen implications of the cognitive mediational and task models for ways teachers can promote students' cognitive…

To eliminate the lack of systematic feedback in cooperative learning, this study used a 2 x 2 (Student Teams x Mastery Learning) factorial design to investigate the effects of student teams using mastery learning strategies on mathematics achievement of fifth-grade children. The results and their implications are discussed. (Author/MT)

History has previously been learned as a long parade; making it wider, not just a single file of great men, is certainly an improvement. But whole areas of life reflect patterns of change that are apart from the major concerns of political leaders. Humanizing history makes it memorable and gives children a sense of connection. (MT)