Techniques for teaching linear regression are provided. Discussed are leverage and the hat matrix in simple regression, residuals, the notion of leaving out each observation individually, and use of this to study influence on fitted values and to define residuals. Finally, corresponding diagnostics for multiple regression are discussed. (MNS)

To identify the cultural elements in school principals' problem-solving processes and the differences between experts and their more typical colleagues, this study interviewed 22 elementary principals. From their responses to brief, hypothetical case problems, a problem-solving model was constructed. Differences were most evident in responses to…

Discussion of the role of small group performance focuses on solving problems to improve performance. Types of tasks and their effects on groups are described; group resources are discussed; factors affecting group process are explained; and a flowchart for solving group performance problems is presented. (LRW)

As codirector of Harvard University's Project Zero, David Perkins has conducted long-term research programs on creativity, problem solving and reasoning, and learning in the arts, sciences, and everyday life. He explains a new program designed to help teachers connect thinking strategies with subject matter, so that students can better manage…

This study of 150 males and 121 females approximately 16 1/2 years of age explored relations among developmental levels and styles of interpersonal negotiation strategies (INS) and competence in social problem-solving skills. Also assessed relations among levels and styles of INS and self-reported engagement in problem behaviors. (RH)

Description of expert system development focuses on identifying the problem, or knowledge, domain, and discusses three methods for defining the domain: (1) brainstorming, (2) concept analysis, and (3) information processing analysis, which describes cognitive processes. The techniques are illustrated by a description of an auto manfacturer's sales…

Because workers need more than job-specific skills, vocational education should emphasize self-management skills (setting goals, planning, adjusting, and evaluating); knowledge extension skills (composing, problem solving, decision making, and inquiry); and enabling skills (comparing, classifying, deducing, analyzing, supporting, and abstracting).…

Investigated relationship between problem-solving appraisal and state-trait personality variables. Undergraduate students (N=73) completed Problem Solving Inventory of Heppner and Petersen and Spielberger's State-Trait Personality Inventory. Found significant relationships between problem-solving appraisal and state-trait factors of anxiety,…

In a single evening workshop for school board members, teams of participants are given the facts of a situation previously confronted by a real school board and challenged to come up with a solution. After discussion, the real-life solution is revealed and compared to plans developed by the teams. (MLF)

Provides problems to illustrate the potential power of mathematical intuition when confident problem solvers take the time to "play" with a problem and follow their instincts. (MKR)

Investigates mathematical problem-solving processes from the viewpoint of the solver's structures representing a problem situation. Analysis shows that the solver's structures were modified during the solution process in a global restructuring based on certain characteristics of the solver's mental representations. (53 references) (Author/MKR)

Describes a study with the main objective of constructing models based on strategies students use to solve chemistry problems and to show that these models form sequences of progressive transitions termed "problemshifts" that increase the explanatory/heuristic power of the model. Results implies that the relationship between algorithmic…

Examines the following research questions and others: (1) How do students define the mole concept? and (2) Is there a connection between student's definition of the mole concept and their explanations of the numerical identity between the atomic or molecular mass and molar mass of a substance? Results are discussed in terms of research in chemical…

Presents examples of the use of open-ended problems in Australia and discusses assessment of open-ended problem solving. (MKR)

Discusses varieties of open-ended problems in mathematics, including problems that are unsolved in the field of mathematics, are open with respect to solution method, are open to interpretation of the problem or solutions, or that invite other problems as follow-up. (Author/MKR)