Proposes using the reform documents from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), a theory-based multidimensional assessment framework, to help expand the scope of assessment in mathematics. Presents a framework using a context based on mathematical reasoning and components that comprise mathematical concepts, procedures,…

Describes two projects featuring problem-oriented lessons and assignments. The Gallatin (Tennessee) High School Interdisciplinary Project was a four-year case study that investigated students' ability to make connections with their societal and school curriculum using self-selected cases, videodiscs, and literature. "Explorers of the…

Review of problem-based learning (PBL) finds that innovation is comprised of four elements: an ill-structured problem, substantive content, student apprenticeship, and self-directed learning. Research evidence suggests that PBL is better than traditional instruction on long-term information retention, conceptual understanding, and self-directed…

Describes a problem suitable for grades 1-6 where students utilize a hundreds chart and counters. Students cover any numbers that contain only the digit 1, then cover any numbers containing only the digits 1 and 2, and follow this pattern until they can determine how many digits are needed before the hundreds chart is half covered. (AIM)

Investigates relations between psychological health and problem-solving self-appraisal in elderly adults (N=97). Results indicate complex and contradictory relations between problem-solving self-appraisal and psychological health. As problem-solving self-appraisal became more favorable, well-being increased and distress decreased. However,…

Argues that objectives-based planning, the most common and most institutionalized approach to college and university planning in the United Kingdom, is inappropriate for complex or large-scale planning. Presents 10 specific criticisms of this approach, and offers problem-based planning--formulating problems and seeking to find the impediments to…

Illustrates how mathematicians work and do mathematical research through the use of a puzzle. Demonstrates how general rules, then theorems develop from special cases. This approach may be used as a research project in high school classrooms or math club settings with the teacher helping to formulate questions, set goals, and avoid becoming…

A seven-step process can help people from different cultures understand each other's intentions and perceptions so they can work together harmoniously: problem identification, problem clarification, cultural exploration, organizational exploration, conflict resolution, impact assessment, and organizational integration. (JOW)

Presents selected responses to the question "The Farmer's Dilemma" that represent the thinking of sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students. Indicates that by being given the freedom to use a variety of methods, most students found at least one solution or demonstrated an understanding of the restrictions set by the problem. (ASK)

Presents a variety of mathematical games from all over the world using pen and paper, or single-board setups. (ASK)

The cognitive effects of self-referencing in math word problems were studied in 100 third, fourth, and fifth graders solving compare-unknown and referent-unknown problems. In general, self-referencing (referring to "you") facilitated encoding processes in solving these problems. Self-referencing appeared to decrease the load on working…

A common way to teach creative thinking is through creative problem solving. Outlines the stages of problem solving: problem exploration, idea development, implementation, and selected activities for developing creative problem solving competences. Discusses the role of attitude, experience, and motivation. Concludes that creativity training is…

There are no quick fixes to any problems that school systems face. The best solution lies in building a common approach to solving problems utilizing an established procedure; an interactive process; and a trained team of administrators, teachers, and nonteaching staff members. (MLF)

Examines decision making in educational organizations, focusing on problems associated with identifying and labeling issues. Factors influencing labeling include decision maker characteristics such as filtering ability, aspiration level, capabilities and experience, stress, "satisficing" proclivity, anchoring and adjustment, selective…

Presents an activity to involve students in mathematical communication and creative thinking. The activity is similar to the "pass it along" gossip game in which each person in a chain adds a piece of information. The class analyzes the resulting mathematics problem using George Polya's problem-solving techniques. (MKR)