Recent "reform" curricula both ignore the absence of supporting data and completely misunderstand the role of problem solving in cognition. If, the argument goes, teachers are not really teaching people mathematics but rather are teaching them some form of general problem solving, then mathematical content can be reduced in importance. According…

A rationale for the teaching of thinking and problem-solving skills is outlined, and the definition of and design for teaching such skills are discussed. Developing the ability of students to think has surfaced in recent years as one of the major purposes of American education. Problem solving has been described as a major type of thinking…

Why games should be used in mathematics classes is discussed. Their advantages and use in teaching mathematics effectively are emphasized: to practice skills, to develop concepts, to build problem-solving strategies, and to motivate. (MNS)

Two studies appear to reach unsatisfactory conclusions regarding causes of low math achievement among American Indians. Leap (1988) studied math problem-solving strategies among low-math-achieving fourth- and fifth-grade Ute reservation students. He concluded that faulty or cumbersome problem-solving strategies were directly linked to Ute language…

Shows how to use common topics within area studies to develop important social studies skills. The example provided illustrates how to develop data analysis, data evaluation, problem solving, and map skills using the topics of bamboo and the Bhopal, India, chemical disaster. (JDH)

A practical guidebook of ideas, lesson materials, and related resources for developing imaginative and productive thinking skills of children is presented to assist teachers and parents. Emphasis is placed on the use of strategies and techniques that enhance originality, mental imagery, reverie, reflection, humor, novel playfulness, and divergent…

There has been much discussion recently of the effect that gender and learning style have on student performance. Educators have attempted to develop new teaching and assessment strategies that accommodate a variety of learning styles, and both males and females are becoming more aware of gender-related traits and their relationship to classroom…

A computer language that can be used by people of all ages, Logo allows children the freedom to direct their own learning. Integrating Logo into the curriculum provides students the opportunity to program a computer, to engage in logical, sequential thinking and planning, to solve problems, and to manipulate text, language, graphics, and music…

Writing is a fundamental skill for students to develop. A learning environment should be in evidence which assists students to achieve more optimally in writing. Writing activities should be interesting, purposeful, meaningful, and provide for individual differences. Students need stimulating learning opportunities involving a variety of purposes…

With the increase in violence over the past few decades, academic and human development practitioners have tried to better understand the dynamics of conflict and develop effective intervention and prevention strategies. There is an ever-deepening appreciation for the mediation process. The mediation process is a powerful problem-solving and…

The incorporation of new technologies into elementary and secondary education must be initiated through reconceptualization of curriculum and instruction; expecting the technology alone to catalyze the transformation is unreasonable and not substantiated by experience. The traditional curriculum improvement process is the best vehicle for bringing…

This paper discusses ways in which artificial intelligence (AI) technologies may be used to aid students for whom English is a second language in the development of language and reading skills, and asserts that the coupling of technology with close adult-teacher contacts within a context of cultural precedents and social rewards is an important…

This seminar report focuses on two major topics: (1) uses of technology with mildly handicapped students which are based on research and promising practices; and (2) the role of technology resource personnel (TRP) in helping teachers to integrate technology and instruction. The report is presented in three sections: Section One outlines a…

This paper discusses how a quality program of science instruction can be developed and achieved. It emphasizes the principal's vital role in improving the science curriculum, claiming that principals should work with teachers to develop a high-quality set of objectives, learning opportunities, and evaluation techniques to modify the curriculum.…

In its most basic form, storytelling is a process where a person (the teller), using vocalization, narrative structure, and mental imagery, communicates with the audience who also use mental imagery and, in turn, communicate back to the teller primarily through body language and facial expression in an ongoing communication cycle. Storytelling is…