Sixty graduate students sorted stories according to three dimensions for classifying analogies: (1) physical similarity; (2) similarity in goals; and (3) whether the analogy leads to a reformulation of the question. High interrater agreement supports the use of the three dimensions to understand earlier inconsistent results in analogical problem…

Develops a division algorithm in terms of familiar manipulations of concrete objects and presents it with a series of questions for diagnosis of students' understanding of the algorithm in terms of the concrete model utilized. Also offers general guidelines for using concrete illustrations to explain algorithms and other mathematical principles.…

termined that students who completed writing assignments on mathematics problems were better problem solvers than students in control groups, supporting the contention that expository writing is an effective, practical, and innovative tool for problem solving. (Sample problems and writing assignments are included.) (DH)

Timing stoplights and trying to determine the best way to allocate cycle time to the two directions is discussed. The simple case and improving the model are both considered. (MNS)

The meaning of problem solving and investigations, what investigations are intended to achieve, the teacher's role, and how to introduce investigations in the curriculum are discussed. (MNS)

The study investigated the cognitive processes underlying differences in computer competency between 29 intellectually gifted and 14 nongifted children. Findings are analyzed. (Author/MT)

When children with Down's syndrome and normally developing children of comparable mental age were compared in their ability to find things they saw in a mirror, it was found that the ability of children with Down's syndrome paralleled that of normally developing children, but that motivational, attentional, and exploratory differences may exist.…

Results of 120 studies were combined by meta-analysis to determine effects on mathematics test performance of factors other than knowledge of content. Conditions that enhanced performance included testwiseness training, praise, word problem pictures, and frequent testing. Conditions depressing or not affecting performance were also noted. (MNS)

Evaluability assessment is a diagnostic and prescriptive technique that can be used to determine the extent to which different problems inhibit program evaluation. It involves policymakers, managers, and staff in developing program theory, clarifying intended uses of evaluation information, and planning further evaluations that would stimulate…

Discusses the cognitive behavior of young children as it applies to the concept of cognitive styles. Encompasses the field-dependence-independence dimension of cognitive style theory and the intellectual aspects and modifiability of cognitive style. (RJC)

Psychometric characteristics of the test scores of 5,663 examinees on six patient management problem tests were studied. The total scores can be divided into subscores based on all options keyed "select" and "omit." Component scores are generally correlated negatively, as reflected in reduced discrimination indices and…

Compares high and low consensus discussions, and identifies patterns of communication which differentiate the two levels of agreement. Describes several interactional differences, including the variety of integration methods employed, and the method and distribution of generating possible solutions to the problem. (MM)

Using planned, sequenced "group initiative tasks," effective cooperative skills can be taught and practiced in an atmosphere of fun and challenge. Such tasks are presented to a group for problem solving, using the physical and intellectual resources of the entire group. (JMM)

Presents six problems from an alternative approach to homework traditionally given to follow-up lectures. Stresses the advantage of longer term exercises which allow for creativity and independence on the part of the student. Problems include: "System Model,""Open-Loop Simulation,""PID Control,""Dahlin…

A critical reexamination of problem-solving through client-centered case consultation is presented for use by school psychologists. It is argued that the focus of consultation should emphasize helping teachers identify and mobilize existing resources and develop self-sustaining competencies in classroom management. (TJH)