Examined effects of student temperament, instructional method (computer versus teacher), and interaction between 2 on observed off-task behavior and problem-solving performance among 78 kindergarten students. Found that students with highest Task Orientation exhibited almost no off-task behaviors with either method, whereas students with lowest…

Develops properties of tasks that are pedagogically efficient and allow students to discover mathematical concepts for themselves. Illustrates the structure and philosophy of powerful tasks for the concept of angle. Presents seven examples of powerful tasks, including two involving two-dimensional graphic systems. (Contains 39 references.)…

Presents strategies for banishing behavior problems in the classroom and creating a positive learning environment. The behaviors include name calling; hitting and pushing; tattling; poking and touching; overactivity; talking back; complaining about no playmates; being unprepared to work; and lying, cheating, and stealing. On-the-spot solutions are…

This article describes and offers examples of acronym mnemonics in mathematics and gives suggestions for their use with students who have learning disabilities. The approach addresses learning the basic facts and solving word problems. Instructional procedures for teaching mnemonics are noted. (DB)

Examines the role of cognitive, metacognitive, and motivational skills in problem solving. Cognitive skills include instructional objectives, components in a learning hierarchy, and information-processing components. Metacognitive skills include strategies for reading comprehension, writing, and mathematics. Motivational skills include motivation…

States that a link exists between language disorders and emotional/behavioral disorders. Provides results of using Positive Peer Culture (PPC) treatment with 14- to 18-year-old males (N=130) incarcerated in a residential treatment center. Suggests that PPC may facilitate communication ability for incarcerated youth. (MKA)

The role of coping strategies, perceived control, and problem-solving appraisal in the career-transition processes of 79 midwestern farmers was studied. Findings suggest that problem-solving appraisal and coping strategies are important in the complex coping process. Results lend support to interventions aimed at increasing farmers' sense of…

Describes how a 16-year-old African-American male, Tyrone, excelled in a mental-health day-treatment facility in which he was enrolled. Tyrone used the skills taught within the replacement-skills curriculum at the facility to compose a rap song that reminded him and his classmates how to react when faced with a difficult situation. (MKA)

Describes a study that examines the extent to which effective thinking skills are incorporated in faculty teaching goals across nine academic disciplines--mathematics, the sciences, and humanities. Indicates that effective thinking skills are included in all faculty goal statements except for those in the romance languages. (3 tables and 33…

Argues that the nature of science has not been emphasized effectively in the professional training of scientists in Pakistan. Describes how the development of science-process skills, an inquiry approach, and constructive learning is delayed. (DDR)

Examines the effectiveness of a conflict-resolution program in raising the academic achievement of a suburban Canadian high school English class. Argues that the conflict-resolution training raised academic performance at the same time that it taught conflict-resolution techniques. Suggests incorporating conflict-resolution training into core high…

Presents educational games to promote mathematical reasoning and problem solving in the primary grades. Children take charge of their learning and create exciting challenges for one another. (ASK)

Reports on the work of Carol Kuhlthau, who has conducted extensive studies of information processes and skills instruction. Topics include the relevance of information and its utilization; critical thinking by the students; information-seeking and problem-solving; and a process approach to information problem-solving. (LRW)

Describes a mobile aquatic education facility in British Columbia that engages students in programs involving live marine and freshwater creatures. (DDR)

Describes procedures for a demonstration that features an exploding can. This demonstration prompts students to critically analyze the release of energy in an exothermic reaction, the work done in such a reaction, and the enthalpy. (DDR)