Presents activity pages containing world population data for students to use to predict future population figures and Consumer Price Index (CPI) data to track changes in the costs of the goods. Includes answer key. (KHR)

This microgenetic experimental study examined children's spontaneous application of analogical problem solving from story problems to physical tasks. Results indicated that 4-year-olds did, with varying success, spontaneously apply analogical solutions to physical problems across sessions. A few children even gave an analogical strategy-related…

Explains an application of mathematical modeling within a school setting as well as progressive use of graphing calculators in mathematical modeling. Analyzes students' performances in the process of problem-solving using the problem of baton-passing in relay races. Discusses students' use of their mathematical knowledge and ideas when they used…

Discusses models for information skills that include inquiry-oriented activities. Highlights include WebQuest, which uses Internet resources supplemented with videoconferencing; Minnesota's Inquiry Process based on the Big Six model for information problem-solving; Indiana's Student Inquiry Model; constructivist learning models for inquiry; and…

Describes the mathematical needs of electricians and in so doing, indicates where the trainers of electricians strike a balance between skills, understanding, and problem solving. (KHR)

Describes benefits of service learning for middle school students. Describes the Community Problem Solving (CPS) Program, a competitive program in which students use the creative problem- solving process to identify community problems and develop and implement solutions. Differentiates community problem solving from other service learning…

Examines the nature of observational science and cites its role as a foundation for subsequent scientific research. Uses a case history to illustrate the interplay of observation, problem recognition, and hypothesis testing. (DDR)

A previous study demonstrated a 12-week universal intervention in three Head Start classrooms significantly improved outcomes on 5 of 10 measures of mental health. In this replication, regular Head Start teachers conducted the universal intervention. Outcomes for 98 children were significant on only two of eight outcome measures. (Contains…

Discusses the need for moving beyond mere information seeking and acquisition to a critical thinking and problem solving approach. Highlights include the Deweyan emphasis on reflection and deliberation; knowledge creation as a shared endeavor; and the art of communicating meaning through intelligently guided inquiry and carefully crafted language.…

Considers how peoples' creative problem-solving efforts are influenced by organizational characteristics. Examines the situations which call for creative problem solving at work and describes the kinds of processes people must apply to solve these problems. Reviews organizational variables that help or hinder these processes. (Author/CR)

Teaching novice kayakers only the biomechanics of a roll and other "closed" (nonadaptable) skills does not create opportunities for flexible skill development. A wider approach teaches support strokes and rolls by focusing on "open" skills that can be transferred or adapted to any situation, including emergency decision making,…

Describes an activity that promotes analytical thinking and problem solving. Gives students experience with important scientific processes that can be generalized to other new laboratory experiences. Provides students with the opportunity to hypothesize answers, control variables by designing an experiment, and make logical deductions based on…

Studies applying the matching law of R. Herrnstein (1961) to college students' choice (n=55 and 31) to complete difficult problems suggest that interspersing problems requiring less time to complete into an assignment may increase rates of reinforcement that can alter students' choice behavior and improve their perceptions of assignments. (SLD)

Describes ways in which general mathematics instruction for students with learning disabilities can focus on math skills needed in daily life in the home, community, and on the job. A table charts the math skills needed for specific life demands. Also addresses life-skills math in the context of reform and curricular considerations. (DB)

Constructivist theory argues that students construct knowledge for themselves and that each knows the world in a different way. The problem for education is how students can construct an "objectified" knowledge. Outlines an integrative framework for the description of information and problem-solving procedures and a problem-solving…