Details a project designed to bolster the quality of astronomy education through teacher workshops. Workshop topics include the solar system, stars, stellar evolution, galaxies, and cosmology. The Learning Approach Questionnaire (LAQ) is used to determine the effects of the workshops. (DDR)

Examines the concept of the memex, use of the computer as a hypertext learning and teaching tool. Discusses the practical implication of this concept using the World Wide Web. Lists disadvantages such as lack of computer access, and keyboarding and outlining skills. (Author/JOW)

Argues that thematic integration in science and mathematics without the accompanying paradigmatic change in teaching pedagogy results in little benefit to the learner. Discusses alternative approaches to integration. Contains 17 references. (DDR)

Describes an approach to algebraic thinking based on an extension of the problem-solving tasks typically investigated by elementary and middle school students. Demonstrates how elements of algebraic thinking may be developed in a systematic and coherent way through problem-solving experiences. States that students' pattern-building capabilities…

Measured thinking styles of first-year South African university students using the Sternberg Mental Self-government Thinking Styles Inventory. Found that the preferred thinking styles were executive, legislative, hierarchic, internal, and conservative. Major and language were differentiating factors in thinking style preferences; gender was not.…

Evaluated a student-focused, learning-to-learn program used in an introductory chemistry class; the program was presented in context and used authentic course materials. Findings indicated that participants were less inclined to engage only in surface learning activities and showed an overall increase in pass rate and a decline in attrition rate.…

Studied the collaborative strategies used in an experimental design task by 24 high- and low-prior knowledge of medical students in groups of 4. The high prior knowledge group used knowledge to help construct plans, evaluate actions, and stay focused. The low prior knowledge group was less systematic and worked at mapping the connections between…

Investigated the study behavior used by students facing an open-book or closed-book examination. Results for 201 college students in Cyprus indicate that students preparing for a closed-book examination tended to postpone study at the end of the semester, focus on assigned texts, and memorize information. Students preparing for open-book tests…

This study examined the learning tactics and knowledge representations used by five high school students with blindness while attempting to acquire information from text (presented in either Braille or audiotape). Tactics included re-reading; summarizing in writing, mentally, or orally; identifying ideas; and elaborating with mental images.…

Interviews students majoring in mathematics who had passed a required introductory course on algebraic structures on students' difficulties with basic concepts in group theory as part of a research project. Reports data concerning cyclic groups. (ASK)

Discussion of learning a new computer software program focuses on how to support the joint handling of a manual, input devices, and screen display. Describes a study that examined three design styles for manuals that included screen images to reduce split-attention problems and discusses theory versus practice and cognitive load theory.…

Introduces a teaching instrument called The Big Picture which is a student-generated overview of a unit. Provides a chart of units and summaries for The Big Picture. (YDS)

Describes a project involving a group of 65 freshmen at a private girls' high school. After taking the Dunn, Dunn, and Price Learning Style Inventory, students were given their preferred learning-style profiles and instructions for adapting learning and study methods. Test scores improved substantially without implementing a comprehensive…

Conditions conducive to mindfulness (being fully present and engaged in life as it is actually happening) enhance experiential learning and may be compared to Buddhist traditions of meditation. Among 164 Utah college students who participated in educational outdoor experiences, meditative techniques, such as mindfulness, reduced boredom by…

Describes a project at the Corvallis High School in rural Montana that combines three educational reforms--inclusion of students with diverse academic needs, inquiry-based teaching techniques, and instructional strategies for learning. Discusses project outcomes, including student achievement levels, student attitudes, and student expectations.…