A matrix of planning problems is developed to illustrate pitfalls typically encountered in formal planning. Problems with goals, participation, information and communication, interdependencies, and resources may occur at each of four planning stages: capacity to plan, and initiation, development, and implementation of plans. (Author/MLW)

Indicates that the basics responsible for successful vocational agricultural programs are (1) supervised occupational experience programs, (2) curriculum design emphasizing problem solving and rational thinking, (3) involvement in Future Farmers of America, and (4) qualified teachers. (JOW)

A methodical, goal-oriented system for identifying and correcting the weaknesses of institutional management without undermining that institution's strengths and general character is described. The program, developed by the United Negro College Fund, is called the Integrated Systems Approach to Improving Management. (Author/MLW)

Describes a simplified method of calculating the speeds necessary to cause large relativistic changes and to determine the magnitudes of physical quantities as an object approaches the speed of light. Provides equations and two completed example problems. (JM)

Presents a sample study assignment given in a first year mechanics course that allows students to work in a simplified design mode. The assignment exposes them to an "open-ended" problem requiring a combination of creativity, analytical skills, and group interaction. (BC)

How min-max problems can be solved with trigonometry and without calculus is described. (MNS)

A latent class model for handling the items in Birenbaum and Tatsuoka's study is described. A method to derive the optimal scoring rule when multiple choice test items are used is illustrated. Remedial training begins after a determination is made as to which of several erroneous algorithms is being used. (Author/DWH)

Among the research results on the perceptions of 207 intermediate grade students was the indication that, while problem-solving performance related only to intelligence and math achievement scores, ideational fluency related significantly to student perceptions of emphasis on higher level thinking skills in the classroom and positive classroom…

The focus is on the problem-solving strategy of find a pattern, with a problem explored to illustrate how to use the strategy. Other tips concern classroom climate, checking skills, research, and type of problems. (MNS)

A variety of techniques for incorporating writing--the writing of letters, the keeping of logs, the devising of word problems--into the mathematics curriculum are discussed. The benefits from using an integrated approach are indicated. (DG)

Used descriptive analysis and a forced choice task to investigate childrens' and adults' production, interpretation, and judgment of notation. Results showed that young children may not impose the same symbol-meaning structure at decoding that was proposed at encoding. Only after this ability develops does a preference for one form-one function…

The strategy of making a table is highlighted. A problem is given and the procedure for setting up and using the table are explained. Other suggestions for teaching problem solving are also included. (MNS)

Some misconceptions about learning are discussed and specific suggestions for helping students in a college developmental mathematics class learn how to learn mathematics are presented. Extensive footnotes are appended. (MNS)

Tellado's evaluation of a problem-solving skills training program (TM 510 179) needs to be defined in terms of a client for the evaluation. It may also have implications for earlier intervention in problem-solving skills. Further research about the role of linguistic skills in developing problem-solving skills seems warranted. (Author/BW)

Two main themes are found in the previous critiques (TM 510 180, TM 510 181, and TM 510 182) of the Tellado evaluation (TM 510 179): that Tellado lacked a clear audience for his evaluation and that he lacked an appropriate change orientation. A major problem with utilization-focused and stakeholder-based approaches to evaluation is revealed.…