Describes information-processing research, showing how computer models are used to explain thinking and how information processing approaches can be used systematically. Clarifies why students find factor-label method so difficult to master and discusses guidelines and suggestions for using information-processing ideas. (JM)

An approach to teaching the exponential function using discrete methods, rather than continuous analysis, is presented. A model for simple geometric growth is explored, with a computer program given. (MNS)

Based on 84 questionnaires returned of 160 mailed in 1983 to 41 states and two educational service agencies, this study provides extensive charts on public relations activities in school districts of all sizes and in eight specific areas, including school board policy, news sources, and district/news media relations. (JBM)

Describes an audiovisual teaching unit on the chemical laboratory technique of recrystallization which was developed along problem-solving lines and based on observation of student laboratory behavior. Discussion includes usual procedures for developing such units, how this unit solves problems typically associated with teaching, and its general…

Conclusions about the performance of 9-, 13-, and 17-year-old students on mathematics exercises are reported and illustrated with exercises from the 1973, 1978, and 1982 National Assessment of Educational Progress. (RH)

Discusses several recommendations for the mathematics curriculum, focusing on problem solving, understanding, several content topics, and topic integration and placement. Groups that influence the curriculum, and ways they can do so, are also discussed. (RH)

Relations among aptitude, spatial task solution strategy, and task performance were explored through mathematical models of performance latency. Different models fit different subjects on each of three task steps (encoding, synthesis, and comparison), suggesting that different subjects used different strategies for solving the same items. Aptitude…

Evaluates fourth-to seventh-grade children on two aspects of social cognition: interpersonal understanding and means-ends problem-solving ability. Relates the two variables to sex, age, IQ, social class, and multiple dimensions of competence. Both variables significantly correlated with I.Q. while interpersonal understanding also correlated with…

Differentiates between problem solving and academic learning. The importance of problem-solving possibilities and the characteristics of good problems are discussed. Defines the teacher's role in problem-solving situations and in creating problem-solving possibilities. Delineates four types of problems on the basis of the responses they encourage:…

Discusses the need for preservice elementary teachers to experience inquiry first-hand, suggesting that they engage in problem-solving rather than just "talking about" it. A typical teacher education program is described with suggestions to incorporate inquiry-oriented experiences. An inquiry-oriented activity using sand and funnels is included.…

Alternatives to traditional, large-class lecturing are discussed. They include using canned lectures, demonstrations and lecture experiments, computer simulations, problem-solving strategies, breaks during lectures, and movies. Moving out of large classrooms to laboratories and resource rooms (or giving an examination) is also suggested. (JN)

Cognitive theories of problem solving and cognitive psychologists' suggestions for teaching problem solving are reviewed. Theories and suggestions from creativity research are also considered. How high proficiency levels in problem solving are acquired and how best to teach problem-solving skills (for both well- and ill-structured problems) are…

Describes the function of econometric and technological models in the policy process, and shows how different positions in the Dutch energy discussion are reflected by the application of different model methodologies. Discussion includes the energy policy context, a conceptual framework for using energy models, and energy scenarios in policy…

Presents a writing assignment that requires lawyers in a technical writing class to address the needs of a client who is unhappy with a lawyer and with the language used by the lawyer in a legal document. (FL)

The troubleshooting flow chart is a tool used in a "contributions" course for student teachers that served to make educational psychology and sociology relevant for teaching practice. Theoretical aspects of this approach are discussed. (DF)