One difficulty that mathematically naive subjects encounter in solving arithmetic word problems involves the limitation on short term memory (STM) capacity. It is hypothesized that naive subjects, not having access to formal problem solving strategies, may find visualization useful in reducing strain on STM. Two experiments are reported. The…

Computer programing and problem-solving steps in mathematics are viewed to have related concepts. Some heuristics are compared with some suggestions for structured programing. The one fundamental difference between problem solving in general and when using the computer is seen as the computer solution must be finite. The computer is viewed as a…

This paper describes the instructional design activities used to create ThinkAbout, a video series meant to teach fifth and sixth graders skills essential for learning, i.e., inquiring, analyzing, synthesizing, seeking alternatives, and creative problem solving. Two basic tenets or underpinning statements served as guidelines for the development…

Frustration has been primarily investigated in relation to aggressive behaviors, but may elicit other behaviors depending on the responses available to the individual. To test the effects of task frustration and task success on subsequent group behavior, college women (N=80) were randomly assigned to one of four conditions: task success, task…

The advantages of the Delphi Technique are that it relies on collective expert judgment, prevents the excessive influence in decision-making of those in positions of status, and encourages consensus. The technique consists of five steps: (1) asking experts to list items relevant to a topic; (2) returning the list to the participants and asking…

This study had two major purposes: to examine the effects of dimensional salience upon the learning of conjunction and disjunction rules, and to investigate an alternative to the prevailing cognitive-change accounts of developmental differences in multidimensional problem solving. The relative salience of each of four stimulus dimensions (form,…

This catalog, the fourth edition issued by the U.S. Office of Education, provides current information on the state facilitator projects presently operating in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. It is designed especially for use by state facilitators and developer/demonstrators in the National Diffusion…

The role of visual-spatial operations in nonroutine mathematical problem solving in schoolchildren is investigated through a search of related literature. It is suggested that certain visual-spatial operations are concomitant with the mental processes necessary in problem solving. The following topics are discussed: (1) the importance of problem…

This study was designed to investigate whether problem solving inefficiency in preschool children is the result of subprocess deficiencies in the children's use of logical rules and to assess the influence of 2 mnemonic components (encoding and rehearsal) on problem solving ability. The study subjects, 108 preschool children, were presented with…

The primary questions investigated are: Is it true that males excel in mathematical problem solving and, if so, when does this superiority develop? An examination of recent research showed that sex-related differences did exist, although small, even after controlling for mathematics background. Differences appeared in early adolescence and were…

Several examples are given of a variety of nonstandard problems, not ordinarily found in texts or courses, now accessible to students who have programmable calculators. These include: (1) finding limits; (2) evaluating infinite series; (3) calculating finite series; (4) computing variable length products; (5) solving equations; (6) searching for…

A review of the current status of data processing (DP) in management information systems, including the functions assigned to DP in organizations, what it was designed to do, and levels of training of personnel, provides the basis for an examination of new demands on DP. An approach which is advocated as a means of overcoming many of the…

This paper outlines a model of learning and problem solving based on ideas derived from information processing models of memory and Ausubel's theory of meaningful learning. The model explicitly deals with the cognitive processes that are required for learning, and defines the conditions necessary for learning as the existence of relevant…

Generalized expectancies for problem solving referred to by Rotter appear to have significant relevance to the field of psychotherapy, particularly four specific expectancies of interest: (1) looking for alternatives; (2) understanding the motives of others; (3) long-term planning; and (4) discriminating differences in psychological situations. A…

An analysis of the regulatory activity of eight neurologically impaired/multiply handicapped children and eight normally learning children in two age groups (means 3 years 8 months and 5 years 9 months) was made. The children attempted to resolve conflicts that arose while balancing two wooden blocks, identical in appearance, except that one…