Reports on a study of human problem-solving behavior in which a technique called First-Order Cognitive Analysis was employed to analyze the tasks involved in certain accounting processes such as bookkeeping. A reference list, an appendix outlining the problem employed in the study, and an appendix on the task analysis are attached. (JL)

Three mathematical problems are discussed to point out the need to use problems with more than one solution, but at least one readily available solution. As well as encouraging logical thinking, problems should involve pattern recognition and the generation of guesses to be tested. (MNS)

Argues that social scientists convey the impression of rational behavior by means of self-serving research techniques. Concludes that their artificially constructed order masks the disorder of everyday existence and that they should have tolerance for human frailties. (Author/WD)

A professor's one-time observation of gifted and low-achieving students at one school leads to a startling conclusion. The gifted students were excessively anxious and unable to think creatively in the face of new problems; the low-achievers demonstrated high levels of creative problem-solving. (Author/WD)

A method of using vector analysis is presented that is an application of calculus that helps to find the best angle for tacking a boat into the wind. While the discussion is theoretical, it is seen as a good illustration of mathematical investigation of a given situation. (MP)

Two nonentrenched tasks are described, one requiring projection into the future of states of objects, the other requiring complex anological reasoning where multiple terms of analogies can be replaced by alternative answer options. Some speculations are made about the implications of these results for educational theory and practice. (Author/GK)

Learning disabled (LD) children react to hurt and rejection by selecting from a number of poor choices, including giving up or throwing a tantrum. A teacher can help the LD child through a reality program which includes 10 steps to better control. (CL)

The material opens with a brief history of mathematics competitions in China. Translations of the problems that made up the two 1979 contest papers used are provided. The first set emphasized basic knowledge and degree of mastery, the second set emphasized application of knowledge and analysis of problems. (MP)

Changes in children's cognitive strategies for solving simple subtractions were studied by analyzing verbal reports given immediately after each problem. The development of children's cognitive processes involved a gradual shift from more primitive and less demanding memory strategies to reconstructive memory processes to retrieval processes.…

A structural arithmetic curriculum is designed to help students develop their own powers of thought. (Author/MLF)

Describes dilemmatic view of research process in which research is regarded as dilemmas to be lived with rather than problems to be solved. From this perspective, the proper starting place to discuss methodology is to lay out a series of choices, describe choices in terms of mutually incompatible goals involved, and discuss research strategies.…

Suggests a system for classifying problems to help educators identify their problems and understand their complexity. Presents the Problem-Identification Matrix, which helps clarify the cause-and-effect relationship that exists in any problematic situation. (WD)

Utilized a defense-mechanism model of death anxiety to investigate differential individual and group problem-solving ability as well as differing types of orientation as a function of high, moderate and low death anxiety. Significant differences were reported between moderate and high anxiety groups and low and high death-anxiety groups. (Author)

Investigated the effects of different sets of instructions (feeling disclosure, logical disclosure, placebo control, and control) to discuss personal concerns on subject productivity and subject satisfaction ratings. Analyses indicated the instructional manipulation was effective in producing different kinds and amounts of talk by condition.…

Presents an exercise for use in political science courses on the college level that requires students to solve a frequently occurring problem--the provision of a collective good and the allocation of its costs. To solve the problem, students answer questions such as "Why do we have governments?" and "What constitutes a just policy?" (Author/DB)