A systematic approach to teaching software provides instructional precision and maximum learning support, best suited for novices. A minimalist approach focused on context and student experience enables advanced learners to examine problem-solving processes and apply concepts to real-world problems. (SK)

Discusses possible solutions for the problem of determining how many sandwiches were made with specific ingredients that appeared in the March 1998 issue of this journal. (ASK)

University students' answers to a "Minds on Physics" problem revealed six distinct approaches to the solution. Discusses implications for teaching and assessment. (Author/WRM)

Students with learning disabilities appear to be at greater risk than other students for school and behavioral problems. This study explores the appropriateness of brief solution-oriented counseling in the school setting. Perceptions of counseling and the counselor, and changes in students' concerns were measured. (EMK)

Describes Public Issues Education, a term used in the Cooperative Education Service for a range of multiparty approaches for addressing public issues, from formal conflict resolution procedures to coalition-building and collaborative problem solving. (JOW)

Describes the application of conflict-resolution strategies to managed-care disputes. The premises and processes for conflict resolution through negotiation are presented, the application of these principles to common disagreements between providers and payers is demonstrated. Strategies for overcoming difficulties resulting from differential…

Discusses and presents examples of alternative styles of transmitting mathematical knowledge at the tertiary level, with a view to promoting debate on the issue. Emphasizes processes rather than skills, and considers problem solving and peer tutoring. (Author/ASK)

Investigated relationships among different types of errors occurring during probability problem solving by 50 graduate students without mathematical sophistication. Categorized errors as text comprehension, conceptual, procedural, and arithmetic/computation errors. Discusses implications for the teaching and learning of probability problem…

Reports on an empirical study that investigated the use of hypertext information systems during architectural design problem solving. Discusses theoretical notions on design problem solving, changing informational needs, and educational implications related to learning in complex domains. (Author/LRW)

Examines 250 sixth-grade students' understanding of arithmetic average by assessing their understanding of the computational algorithm. Results indicate that the majority of the students knew the "add-them-all-up-and-divide" averaging algorithm, but only half of the students were able to correctly apply the algorithm to solve a…

Examines the components required to assess student problem solving in technology environments. Discusses the purposes of testing, provides an example demonstrating the difference between retention and transfer, defines and analyzes problem solving, and explores techniques and standards for measuring the quality of student understanding. Contains…

Presents three classification activities in which students work in cooperative small groups using physical materials to foster flexible thinking in doing mathematics. Concludes that attribute blocks are useful physical manipulatives for promoting classification activities and problem-solving skills. (ASK)

Describes the results of part of a study into mathematical problem solving in secondary schools. Concludes that positive results were achieved, in part, as a consequence of the time that was spent in problem-solving lessons which allowed students to practice reading and working with word problems and working on basic material, particularly…

Shares some explorations of Fibonacci sequences with a special focus on problem-solving and posing processes. (ASK)

Presents methodologies for diagnostic problem solving, including clinical diagnosis using the DSM-IV, multiaxial empirically based assessment, and behavioral assessment. Reviews these approaches within the context of methodological and conceptual issues pertaining to the construct of treatment utility. Argues that clinical diagnosis and…