The problem of determining the most energy-efficient strategy to use in approaching a traffic light that is sighted at an unknown phase in its cycle is discussed. Included are calculations, results, and conclusions. (KR)

Described are some ways in which individual states code driver's license numbers. The encoding of month, date of birth, year of birth, sex, and others involving elementary mathematics and the use of an elaborate system of hashing functions in describing the first, middle, and last names are discussed. (KR)

Presented is a combinatorial problem based on the Hash House Harriers rule which states that the route of the run should not have previously been traversed by the club. Discovered is how many weeks the club can meet before the rule has to be broken. (KR)

Forty 17- to 18-year-old subjects scoring above or below a sample median on the Beck Depression Inventory participated in a controlled study to assess their reactions to solvable and unsolvable problems with and without the interference of noise. Under helpless and nonhelpless conditions, depressive symptomatology affected problem-solving ability,…

Outlines conceptualization and preliminary exploration of phenomenal patterning, a counseling approach used to examine how language expression, theme identification, and guided imagery can reveal basic structure of person's mindset. Examined patterning focusing on theme of problem formation/resolution and three universal modeling processes of…

Describes a study that was designed to investigate the relationship between certain features of interactive video design and the deployment and development of cognitive problem-solving skills. Middle school mathematics students used for the study are described, the use of videotapes and interviews is discussed, and group dynamics are examined. (26…

A technique used to teach removal of foreign bodies from eyes uses freshly slaughtered calves' eyes in which metal particles are embedded at different depths. The approach develops both mechanical skills and problem-oriented evaluation and management of patients. Preparation and presentation of workshops using the technique are also discussed.…

Considers three main components of self-directed learning: (1) topic knowledge; (2) procedural skills; and (3) self-monitoring. The role of computer-assisted instruction in autonomous learning is discussed, software that fosters independent problem solving is reviewed, and it is recommended that computers be incorporated in courses emphasizing…

A study demonstrated that the problem-solving ability of 45 first grade, Hispanic, bilingual children was related to the semantic structures of word problems in a similar manner for both of the children's languages and in a manner similar to that of monolingual speakers. (Author/LB)

Energy problems that incorporate power generation in hydroelectric, fossil-fuel burning, and nuclear power stations are presented. The burning process and the energy released are discussed. Practice problems and solutions, a summary of various energy units and conversion factors, and lists of thought-provoking energies and powers are included. (KR)

The geometry problems of finding rectangles that have numerically equal areas and perimeters knowing when the plane can be tessellated by congruent regular polygons are connected by the equation: m = 2n/(n-2). Three graphic approaches to the solution of the problem when m and n are integers are discussed. (MDH)

School mathematics curriculum worldwide has failed to bridge the gap between school mathematics and out-of-school problem-solving activities. Presented is the need for a mathematics curriculum unifying the civil, academic, bureaucratic, and school social domains to prepare students as functional citizens. (MDH)

An experimenting society is one that vigorously tries out proposed solutions to recurrent problems and then tries other alternatives if evaluation shows that previous efforts are ineffective or harmful. Methods that social scientists could use if the experimenting society becomes a reality are explored. (SLD)

The Directed Inquiry Approach to Learning Science Process Skills and Scientific Problem Solving [DIAL(SPS)2] is described. Concept mapping, advance organizers, Vee diagrams, the theme approach, and focusing are used to help students develop science process skills. (KR)

A demonstration used in a heat and material balances class that explains how a reusable heat pack works is described. An initial homework problem or exam question is provided with its solution. A discussion of the solution is included. (KR)