Problems with apportioning seats within the House of Representatives every 10 years are discussed. The history of the problem and the nature of the politics involved are reviewed, and the current method in use is detailed along with its flaws. A call for a more sensible system is made. (MP)

An approach to using the method of least squares, a scheme for computing the best-fitting line directly from a set of points, is detailed. The material first looks at fitting a numerical value to a set of numbers. This provides tools for solving the line-fitting problem. (MP)

Some easily graded measures of problem-solving processes are introduced, and the impact of a month-long intensive problem-solving course on a selected group of college freshmen and sophomores is demonstrated. The measures are thought to have shown themselves to be both reliable and informative. (MP)

Responds to Daniel R. Wilson's critique of Pekarsky's article, "Moral Dilemmas and Moral Education" (Win 1980). Pekarsky advocates using moral dilemmas to improve student ethical problem-solving skills. The practicality of conceptualization and deliberation skills developed in the classroom and the transferability of cultural values using moral…

Using video to communicate between two opposing groups lets each side work through the issue's emotional aspects and outlines possible solutions. (Author/JOW)

Used the Interpersonal Conflict Coding Scheme to examine the conflict expression episode and the conflict resolution episode and to evaluate utterances of six problem-solving groups. Developed interaction profiles of conflict expression and conflict resolution episodes and initial, middle, and final group stages. (RC)

A program called SemCalc is detailed that enables people to use the computer as a tool to solve word, story, estimation, and simple algebra problems. SemCalc is seen as an example of a computer program that is a tool, with no curricular agenda of its own. (MP)

A series of learning cycle laboratory experiments for general chemistry was developed. The exploration, invention, and application phases of one cycle related to calorimetric measurements are described. (Author/SK)

Summarizes the work of "information processing" psychologists who study cognition and contends that intelligence consists of a set of developed thinking and learning skills that can, to some degree, be taught. Nine such skills are listed including problem identification and strategy selection. (Author/MLF)

Research in cognitive science is providing an increasingly detailed understanding of human cognition. Teachers can help students become conscious of their own reasoning processes and then learn to compare, contrast, interrelate, or coordinate various ways in which they think in order to refine their problem-solving methods. (Author/MLF)

Typical difficulties involved in solving combinatorial problems are examined and seven common pitfalls are discussed. (MP)

A computer simulation of the Buffon Needle Problem for estimating the value of pi is discussed. (MP)

A distinction is made between estimation and checking, and an analysis of standard errors made on calculators when pupils are checking answers is given. (MP)

Vocational education curriculum should move beyond the technical-efficiency model, which emphasizes skill in technical procedures for problem solving. Curriculum with a value reasoning approach helps students to maximize their potential through action and reflective thought. (CJ)

Outlines a number of categories for a school district to review when designing an effective plan for program reductions in the face of budgetary cutbacks. (FL)