This review of 20 studies examines 3 predictions concerning the effects of conceptual models on students' understanding of scientific prose: (1) that models improve recall of conceptual information; (2) that they decrease verbatim retention; and (3) that they increase creative solutions on transfer problems. (SLD)

Notes that laboratory work should be more oriented towards puzzle solving rather than technique or illustration. Offers three organic laboratory puzzles which can be solved by melting point alone. Involves lab work at the 100-200-mg scale but still uses conventional glassware. (MVL)

Two incidents involving novice teachers with classes in grades 7 and 10 are presented. Then considered are the nature of intuitive mathematics and contributions computers can make to such intuitive mathematics, particularly in Algebra. (MNS)

Describes a four week simulation of the U.S. Constitutional Convention in which ninth grade students use problem-solving and decision-making skills to debate the issues of the convention. Students are assigned identities and interest areas to stimulate the writing of a class constitution which is then compared with the U.S. Constitution. (LS)

Proposes the use of the oral activity "pyramid discussion," involving students in stimulating small-group problem-solving tasks that encourage the practice of both listening and speaking skills, in order to increase advanced English-as-a-Second-Language students' seminar and discussion skills. (CB)

Discusses changes in family life, the business work place, educational institutions, and social issues that will be faced by those who raise children in the 1990s. (BB)

Presents a study that investigates the knowledge and skills that relate to computer programing. Finds that knowledge and procedural skills are related to computer programing. Recommends that since instruction in computer programing facilitates problem-solving, computer programing courses should be augmented to include teaching template and…

Notes the current attempt to replace social studies with U.S. history and geography. Delineates the two strands of thought in the social studies reform movement and argues that there is a strong tradition of the social studies as a unified, issue-centered field of study. (SLM)

Reviews the history of social studies as an integrated, issue-centered field of study from its inception within the progressive movement to the present. Summarizes major curricular development projects within the issues-centered orientation and speculates on the decline of the problems approach in social studies education. (SLM)

Criticizes the Mitchell and Lawson (1988) report from the viewpoint of individual interview method. Provides Lawson's reply to the comment by showing differences in research philosophy and methods. (YP)

Identifies and discusses 10 overly optimistic claims for the use of computers in the classroom, and makes recommendations concerning each claim. Highlights include computer labs versus curriculum integration; the development of hardware versus software; the values of computer literacy; computer networking; computer education training; the use of…

Argues that the emphasis in law courses on memorizing facts fails to teach the desired concepts of reasoning and problem-solving. Recommends the use of open-book tests. Suggests that because law is an imprecise subject, and there are no right or wrong answers, it should be taught in an open format. (LS)

Three general areas in which technology (microcomputers and video technology) can facilitate learning are discussed: (1) helping students develop fluency (rapid recognition of familiar patterns); (2) providing rich problem-solving contexts that invite thinking; and (3) enabling students to create products that catch the attention of their teachers…

A small group program designed to improve social interaction between children and their autistic siblings is evaluated. Problem solving, role playing, rehearsal, homework projects, and contingency management procedures are used in group sessions. Results of the observational assessment confirm the feasibility of successful interactional training…

The application of a systems approach to intergenerational programs is described. This collaborative programing involves structured thinking about program development and problem solving. Components of the process of linking systems are presented, and some examples of local, state, and national efforts are described. Anticipated outcomes of the…