Reflective practice is a mode that integrates thought and action with reflection. Learning is dependent upon the integration of experience with reflection and of theory with practice. Experience is a basis for learning but reflection is the essential part of the learning process because it results in making sense or extracting meaning from the…

This book provides a sequence of organized training sessions and activities designed to prepare students for such helping roles as student assistant, tutor, special friend, and small group leader. The first of the handbook's seven chapters provides an introduction to friendly helpers, describes helping characteristics, and presents an overview of…

Findings of a study that examined the collaborative problem-solving processes used by superintendents are presented in this paper. Based on information processing theory, the study utilizes a model composed of the following components: interpretation; goals; principles and values; constraints; solution processes; and mood. Data were derived from…

Alternative conceptions of classroom learning are explored in this paper, with a focus on challenging current assumptions about learning, teaching, and creating conditions to improve schools. The constructivist view is offered as a different approach to the behaviorist concept of learning and the metaphor of the classroom as a workplace. From a…

The purpose of this investigation was to identify and describe the differences in the methods used by experts (university chemistry professors) and nonscience major introductory chemistry students, enrolled in a course at the university level, to solve paired algorithmic and conceptual problems. Of the 180 students involved, the problem-solving…

Data show that gangs, drugs, and random murders are becoming staples in the lives of U.S. children. Every major U.S. city is facing a deadly gang problem, exemplified by drive-by shootings and teenagers brandishing assault weapons. This document presents witness testimony, prepared statements, and panel discussions that examine the problem of gang…

This study investigated the musical thinking of two composers through the use of concurrent protocol analysis and examinined their problems, funded experience, and reflective thinking. The objective was to determine the extent to which there is an observed or implicit paradigm of reflective thinking in the thinking of a practicing composer. The…

Mental models or implicit theories held by adults about everyday problem solving were studied. Research questions were posed to 12 male and 12 female adults, aged 25 to 60 years, from a wide range of educational and occupational orientations. Subjects were interviewed in pairs. Verbal Protocol Analysis was used to analyze the data from two…

Many of the theories about communicating effectively in corporate structures as well as the accompanying pedagogy do not pertain to changes in corporate structure and communication brought about by Total Quality Management (TQM). TQM creates a work environment in which employees need problem-solving skills and interpersonal skills that allow them…

This paper encourages the use of Total Quality Management (TQM) tactics and other strategies as a practical means of fostering a quality culture in institutional research offices of higher education institutions. In particular, four approaches are advocated for understanding and minimizing errors: (1) use of TQM tactical tools to enhance work…

The traditional model of instructional development (ID) is found lacking by some in the face of problems that call for a customer/user focus, adaptable technical and social designs, and solutions where training is impractical or unaffordable. This paper outlines an alternative model based on the socio-technical paradigm, which suggests a better…

In this paper four programs are described in which children learn multidigit number concepts and operations with understanding: (1) the Supporting Ten-Structured Thinking projects, (2) the Conceptually Based Instruction project, (3) Cognitively Guided Instruction projects, and (4) the Problem Centered Mathematics Project. The diversity in these…

The main aim of this paper is to demonstrate that new and highly effective computer-based learning tools can be designed by adhering to a simple principle: Good learning tools conform to and support the processes and structures that comprise learning. The paper first discusses the processes involved in learning cognitive skills, then describes…

The purpose of this paper is to review literature on analogical reasoning, to work out the implications of Polya's model of analogical problem solving, and to propose an alternative model of instructional design based on the use of analogical reasoning. Justification of the model is based on research on the nature of analogical thought and an…

A study determined what trainers considered to be the most frequent problems they faced as beginners delivering training to adult learners. Experts were then asked to respond to these problems with solutions they found to be effective. A literature review was conducted that focused on two distinct elements: the human learning principles and needs…