Explores the relationship between the concept of uncertainty in information seeking within a model of the problem-solving process and variables derived from other models, based on longitudinal data collected in the United Sates and the United Kingdom that investigated the processes of mediated information retrieval searching during human…

This study used the self-determined learning model to teach self-regulated problem-solving skills for achieving self-set goals to four mainstreamed middle school students with mental retardation or developmental disabilities. Data revealed immediate and dramatic changes for all participants, with performance levels maintained at 100 percent.…

Undergraduates (n=195) were asked to work on three creative problem-solving tasks. Beliefs consistent with the nature of the task were found to be those most likely to be related to performance. Belief measures were found to be reasonably powerful predictors of the production of original, high-quality solutions. (Contains references.) (CR)

Proposes a foundation for the design of an online learning environment being developed at the University of New England (Australia) for the acquisition of metacognitive problem solving skills in science. Discusses instructional design guidelines for developing learning environments that supply cognitive support to strengthen metacognitive and…

Offers a cave-mapping problem and discusses how to solve it. Presents the problem and necessary geologic background and a spreadsheet algorithm to solve the problem. (KHR)

Proposes a word problem concerning placing students around triangular tables. Students must determine how to place the touching tables so that everyone can be seated. (KHR)

Examines Italian high school student beliefs about mathematics and mathematical problem solving by exploring the use of a 36-item self report questionnaire. Reports that a substantial replication of the instruments, with exception of one scale, was not reliable. Finds that the four scales predicted achievement in mathematics to different extents.…

To increase student achievement, a Massachusetts school district used Appreciative Inquiry, a strengths-based approach to problem solving for strategic planning. The process asks: What does this organization do well, and what is our vision for the future. Cites activities that helped schools reach goals set in the process. (MLF)

Describes the successful use of a computer algebra system (CAS) with a student as he worked on a problem involving functions far more difficult than he had previously encountered. (Author/NB)

Guides students through the process of designing a window. Allows them to use technology and a variety of representations while maximizing and minimizing the dimensions based on cost and light. Includes activity sheets. (Author/NB)

Describes an activity, The Spaghetti Problem, that shows how statistics could be used to introduce many topics in the secondary mathematics curriculum. (KHR)

Describes a collaborative effort between a professor and a group of high school teachers pursuing an M.A. in education as they model practices for problem solving in the school climate. Addresses the theory that teachers who feel supported in their own ongoing learning and classroom practices are more committed to teaching. (Contains six…

Describes design-based science, which aims to develop useful skills for a wide range of actual problem-solving situations involving science. Discusses units of design activities concerning the voltage and lifetime of batteries and the potential in science education. (KHR)

Explores teaching methods to improve students' understanding of quantitative chemistry and their ability to solve related problems using the Multidimensional Analysis System (MAS). Investigates the relationships between MAS-classified chemistry problems and student achievement in solving these problems. Shows that improvement in student…

Three education deans responded to three vignettes by thinking aloud about ways to resolve problems with moral and social implications. Their responses supported a proposed conceptual framework's moral and social dimensions and highlighted themes within each of these two dimensions that education deans relied on to solve problems. Results suggest…