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2015Feb12 - Stress Management for Better Problem Solving - Programme at SAMETI - AP State Agricultural Management and Extension Training Institute - Hyderabad, conducted by Extension Education Institute of Agricultural University.  A programme was conducted titled Criticial Thinking Skills for Better Problem Solving. This is a live recording of the session, in Telugu, to a group of participants of a 3 Day Programme organized by SAMETI. A power point presentation was used, and those who are interested in having a copy of the same are requested to drop a line to: [email protected]

In this research, it is aimed to analyze the problem solving skills of university students in terms of different variables and to analyze the differences among the levels of perceived problem solving skill of the students of Physical Education and Sports College and other branch students. The sample consists of the university students from the School of Physical Education and Sports (128) and from the Department of Tourism and Hotel Management (104) from the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences Department (162), summing up 394 students (n[subscript female]=193, n[subscript male]=201) in total, based on the simple random sampling method. "Personal Information Form" and "Problem Solving Inventory (PSI)" were used as data collection tools. The T-test and One-Way ANOVA were used for normal distribution and LSD Test was used for determining the differences across groups. When the data were analyzed in terms of the variables of the study, it was found that a significant difference between the gender variable and problem solving skill in favour of males although there was no statistically significant difference between the problem solving skills and the place of birth of the students and the number of family members. It was found a significant difference between the students from School of Physical Education Sports and Department, students from Tourism and Hotel Management Department and students from the Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences Department in favour of the students from The Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences Department. Based on the findings of the research; Problem-solving skills of the students of the Physical Education and Sports College were found to be lower than the other departments

The purpose of this experimental study was to assess the effects of cognitive style, problem complexity, and hypothesis generation on the problem solving ability of school-based agricultural education students. Problem solving ability was defined as time to solution. Kirton's Adaption-Innovation Inventory was employed to assess students' cognitive style as either "more adaptive" or "more innovative." Students were assigned randomly, by cognitive style, to solve either a simple or complex problem in small gasoline engines. A three-way independent analysis of variance revealed that a statistically significant interaction effect between the independent variables did not exist. Additionally, the two-way interactions between cognitive style and problem complexity, and cognitive style and hypothesis generation were not statistically significant. A statistically significant interaction effect did exist, however, between problem complexity and hypothesis generation. A simple main effects test revealed the students who hypothesized their problem correctly were the most efficient at solving the problem. Future research should require students who generate an initial incorrect hypothesis to re-hypothesize prior to attempting to solve the problem. Educators should encourage students to engage in metacognitive activities, such as hypothesizing, prior to engaging in problem solving activities.

TO DETERMINE THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DOGMATISM AND PERFORMANCE AS MEASURES OF PROBLEM SOLVING ABILITY IN EXTENSION AGENTS, A STUDY WAS MADE OF 486 AGENTS AND 23 SUPERVISORS IN FIVE STATES. AGENTS RESPONDED TO MAILED QUESTIONNAIRES AND THEIR SUPERVISORS RETURNED PERFORMANCE RATINGS. THE DEGREE OF OPEN-MINDEDNESS WAS MEASURED ON THE ROKEACH DOGMATISM SCALE AND PERFORMANCE SCORES WERE MEASURED BY RATINGS BY THE SUPERVISORS USING THE LAWSHE KEPHART PERSONNEL COMPARISON SYSTEM. AN INVERSE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LEVEL OF DOGMATISM AND PERFORMANCE WAS INDICATED. IT WAS MOST STRONGLY ASSOCIATED WITH MIDDLE AGED AGENTS, AND THOSE WITH LESS THAN A MASTER'S DEGREE. A SLIGHT POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP WAS SHOWN BETWEEN AGE AND DOGMATISM, AND A STRONG NEGATIVE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN LEVEL OF EDUCATION AND DOGMATISM. ANALYSIS ALSO SUGGESTED THAT AGENTS LOW IN DOGMATISM WERE RATED HIGHER IN PERFORMANCE THAN AGENTS HIGH IN DOGMATISM REGARDLESS OF THE DEGREE OF DOGMATISM OF THE SUPERVISOR. THIS PAPER WAS PRESENTED AT THE NATIONAL SEMINAR ON ADULT EDUCATION RESEARCH, CHICAGO, FEBRUARY 11-13, 1968. (RT)

Case-based learning formats, in which relevant case information is provided just in time, require teachers to combine their scaffolding role with an information-providing one. The objective of this study is to establish how this combination of roles affects teacher behavior and that, in turn, mediates students' reasoning and problem solving. Data on actual behaviors, intentions, effects and appreciation were collected using observations of case discussions, interviews, and a questionnaire in a mixed method, concurrent nested design. Cross-case analysis of the observed discussions revealed two patterns of combining the provision of information with scaffolding. Although students commonly responded to scaffolding interventions as intended, the results from the observations and the questionnaire showed that a pattern with a high level of concurrent scaffolding and provision of information should be avoided. (Contains 4 tables and 1 figure.)

This article explains the need for comprehensive education in problem solving in primary and secondary schools. The article then describes strategies for providing comprehensive education in problem solving. These strategies include embedding problem solving training in classes across the curriculum and making minor adjustments to current efforts to teach domain-specific problem solving in mathematics, science, and other classes. The article concludes with a summary of characteristics of a school that are likely to facilitate implementation of these suggested strategies.

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is the main federal program concerning the education of children and youth experiencing homelessness. It provides federal funding to states, which then distribute the funds to their school districts through a competitive application process; the funds are used to ensure that children and youth experiencing homelessness have access to the free, appropriate public education to which they are entitled under federal law. This publication was developed from the McKinney-Vento Act and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) administrators one-day web-based policy forum co-hosted by the National Center for Homeless Education (NCHE) and Project Forum at the National Association for State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE). In June 2008, NASDSE and NCHE convened online state and local teams of McKinney-Vento and IDEA Part B and Part C administrators from Colorado, Texas, and Virginia. The purpose of this forum was to develop a collaborative process and identify strategies to enable state and local IDEA and McKinney-Vento staff to think through complex issues from an administrative and policy perspective. This brief was developed to assist in addressing complex issues that arise in applying the McKinney-Vento Act and IDEA to children who experience homelessness and have disabilities. [This brief was collaboratively developed with the National Association for the Education of Children and Youth.]

This training manual provides materials for conducting a workshop on problem solving and creating good agreements in special education. The first section of the manual provides a brief introduction to the world of special education and discusses why special education law is complex. Section 2 explores why conflict is created, seven types of conflict, and the three most common responses to conflict. The following section focuses on preparation for problem solving. Techniques are provided for dealing with difficult people and becoming an effective problem solver. Section 4 highlights critical communication skills and discusses barriers to effective communication. Section 5 provides steps in the process of collaborative problem solving, including sharing perspectives, defining the issues, identifying the interests, generating options, deciding on objective criteria, and evaluating options and reaching agreement. The next section focuses on strategies for success in dispute resolution. It provides solutions for common problems, including defusing resistance, refocusing the discussion or reframing the issues, dealing with emotional baggage, and educating. Section 7 discusses dispute resolution processes in special education, including mediation, complaint investigation, due process hearings, independent educational evaluations, fact finding, and arbitration. The final section contains suggested reading, definitions, and acronyms. (Contains 23 references.) (CR)

Legal reasoning is a type of problem solving, and is situated within thinking skills, one of the six threshold learning outcomes established under the auspices of the Australian Learning and Teaching Council's Bachelor of Laws Learning and Teaching Academic Standards Statement. The threshold learning outcomes define what law graduates are "expected to know, understand and be able to do as a result of learning" (Kift et al., 2010, p. 9). The assessment of legal reasoning, and thus problem solving, should receive greater attention in legal education discourse (James, 2011, p. 15, James, 2012, p. 88). The dominant approach for problem-based questions in the discipline of law over the last 40 years is IRAC (issue, rule, application and conclusion). The acronym IRAC is not offensive and potentially instils a positive professional legal identity and is a student-centred approach to problem solving. This journal article documents an incremental approach to IRAC in law where first year students answer a problem-based law question using a grid format before preparing a barrister's advice.

State policy plays a critical role in determining whether and how well local education improvement strategies can be implemented. As states rework their education policies under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), state and local leaders need a way to assess their current policy environment and identify the changes needed to encourage local innovation and problem-solving. To identify the legal and regulatory barriers to local autonomy, the Center on Reinventing Public Education (CRPE) researched 14 states that already have one or more large cities pursuing local innovation strategies. We find that: The accretion of state law over the years has constrained local education leaders' ability to innovate, improve, and transform their schools; States have set up command-and-control frameworks, viewing districts rather than schools as public education's first responders, which is at odds with school-level efforts to address the particular needs of students and communities; and State policy leads to conflicts and disincentives that play out for worse at the local level. This analysis is intended to help policymakers, education leaders, and advocates understand the changes in state law and policy needed to support local strategies that empower educators, promote new schooling options, and let parents choose.

Research findings that indicate the need for greater integration in the development of verbal and mathematical skills for college technical majors are presented in this paper. Although the project discussed was originally designed to isolate language-related difficulties that affect mathematical skills among bilingual Hispanic students, some problems shared by mainstream students were also uncovered. The tests used were designed to demonstrate the effect of verbal skills on logical ability and algebraic problem-solving ability. Patterns of thought manifested in the results of the written exams were then pursued further through clinical interviews. It is stressed that extant programs aimed at the preparation of minorities for technical education at college fall short by not including language skills as an integral part of the program. Such an integrated program, it is suggested, would enhance students' problem-solving performances. The tabulated results of the exams are appended. (RDN)

Preliminary psychometric data assessing the reliability and validity of a method used to measure the diagnostic reasoning and problem-solving skills of predoctoral students in orthodontia are described. The measurement approach consisted of sets of patient demographic data and dental photos and x-rays, accompanied by a set of 33 multiple-choice items with from 2 to 10 options. Students were only able to complete two exercises in a 50-minute testing period, so that content specificity of any sizable magnitude might be a problem. Members of a second-year dental school class were divided into two groups, of 35 and 33 students, to take two versions (each containing two different cases) of the examination for a total of four different cases. Prescriptive items showed uniformly higher internal consistency reliability estimates than did the descriptive items. The intercorrelations among data from the same test administration, correlations between scores for different problems at different testing times, and correlations of class attendance with test scores were all sufficiently large to support the construct validity of the measurement procedure. The method appears to offer a viable method of assessing problem-solving skills in orthodontics, with potential for uses beyond undergraduate education. Three tables present reliability data. (SLD)

Preliminary psychometric data assessing the reliability and validity of a method used to measure the diagnostic reasoning and problem-solving skills of predoctoral students in orthodontia are described. The measurement approach consisted of sets of patient demographic data and dental photos and x-rays, accompanied by a set of 33 multiple-choice items with from 2 to 10 options. Students were only able to complete two exercises in a 50-minute testing period, so that content specificity of any sizable magnitude might be a problem. Members of a second-year dental school class were divided into two groups, of 35 and 33 students, to take two versions (each containing two different cases) of the examination for a total of four different cases. Prescriptive items showed uniformly higher internal consistency reliability estimates than did the descriptive items. The intercorrelations among data from the same test administration, correlations between scores for different problems at different testing times, and correlations of class attendance with test scores were all sufficiently large to support the construct validity of the measurement procedure. The method appears to offer a viable method of assessing problem-solving skills in orthodontics, with potential for uses beyond undergraduate education. Three tables present reliability data. (SLD)

Preliminary psychometric data assessing the reliability and validity of a method used to measure the diagnostic reasoning and problem-solving skills of predoctoral students in orthodontia are described. The measurement approach consisted of sets of patient demographic data and dental photos and x-rays, accompanied by a set of 33 multiple-choice items with from 2 to 10 options. Students were only able to complete two exercises in a 50-minute testing period, so that content specificity of any sizable magnitude might be a problem. Members of a second-year dental school class were divided into two groups, of 35 and 33 students, to take two versions (each containing two different cases) of the examination for a total of four different cases. Prescriptive items showed uniformly higher internal consistency reliability estimates than did the descriptive items. The intercorrelations among data from the same test administration, correlations between scores for different problems at different testing times, and correlations of class attendance with test scores were all sufficiently large to support the construct validity of the measurement procedure. The method appears to offer a viable method of assessing problem-solving skills in orthodontics, with potential for uses beyond undergraduate education. Three tables present reliability data. (SLD)

The focus of this paper is on the problem of appropriate teaching in the open/distance education and the need to practically employ effective evaluative tools for improving the academic achievement of learners involved in these modes of education. This paper introduced KPS method that was formulated on the basis of well stated assumptions as a viable tool at this period of economic recession for checkmating possible challenges capable of being encountered, so as to maximize the opportunities available in open/distance education. The e-module was designed in various packages using the 5-steps of KPS. The teaching/evaluative verbs for each of the ability levels in the packages were coded into the following passwords i.e. 'D,I[superscript 2],R[superscript 3],E,C[superscript 2],T[superscript 2], D,E,V,E,C[superscript 3],Q[superscript 2],U,I,T[superscript 2], S[superscript 3],C[superscript 3],R,I,P,T[superscript 3], A,P,P,R,A,I,S.E[superscript 2]'. Experimenting by juxtaposing KPS with that of the conventional method on 120 selected learners in a quasi-experimental design yielded an empirical data that shows KPS method as a better teaching/evaluative tool than the conventional method. The paper recommends that KPS method should be incorporated into the curriculum of the nation's open/distance educational system as one of the veritable teaching/evaluative tool for improving the academic achievement of all categories of learners.

The main purpose of this study is to determine the gifted students' self-efficacy of educational technology for technology and design. It is also aimed to find out whether there is a statistically significant difference in terms of the gender, the special talent area, the type of school, the grade level, the education level and income rate of families, and the preference of using information and communication technologies. In this study quantitative method was preferred and descriptive screening model was used since it was aimed to determine the students' self-efficacy. The research was conducted with 1.376 pupils who were students in twelve Science and Art Centers in different regions of Turkey. As a data collection tool, "The Self-Efficacy of Educational Technologies for Technology and Design Scale" developed by Author (2019) was used. The scale was prepared in 5-point Likert type and consisted of 4 sub-factors with 20 items. It was found that the four-factor structure explained 52.45% of the total variance for the concept to be measured. Cronbach's Alpha internal consistency coefficient value of the scale was a =0.89. According to the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) results, the items of the scale were grouped under the title of sub-factors as "Technology and Design", "Problem Solving", "Appropriate Tool Selection and the Use of Technology". The scale was found to be highly compatible in terms of current compliance values. According to the results of the research, it was found that the gifted students' self-efficacy of educational technology for technology and design was at "Good" (x-bar=3.86 / x-bar=77.26). In addition, while there was no significant difference in terms of the gifted students' self-efficacy of educational technologies for technology and design according to the gender variable, statistically significant difference was found according to the special talent area, the type of school, the grade level, the education level and income rate of their families, and the preference of using information and communication technologies. According to the results of the research, it is observed that gifted students were at "Good" level in terms of the results of the sub factors "the Use of Technology", "the Problem Solving Skills and the Appropriate Tool Selection and the Technology and Design". By the way it can be said that the individualized education program and individual talent recognition program that special talented individuals follow in Science and Art Centers generally meet the efficiency gains.

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of the Values Education Programme (developed for pre-school children) on the children's social skills, psycho-social development, and social problem solving skills. The sample group consisted of 66 children (33 experimental group, 33 control group) attending pre-school. The Values Education Programme was applied in the experimental group of 33 students, with session time lasting 30 minutes in each 11 week session. In this research the following was used in order to measure the dependent variables: Family Registration Form, Values Education Programme Assessment Interview developed by the researcher, Social Skills Evaluation Scale, Psycho-social Behaviour Scale for Pre-school Children (developed by the Turkish Psychology Association Committee on Pre-school), and the Wally Child Social Problem-Solving Detective Game Test. In the analysis process, descriptive statistics, t-test for independent groups, paired-samples t-test, frequencies, descriptive statistics, and typology analysis techniques were used. At the end of the values education programme, it was seen that the experimental group's social skills, psycho-social development, and social problem solving skills points rose from the pre-test towards the post-test and, that it increased at a significant pace compared to the control group's social skills, psycho-social development and social problem solving skills points. Also, after completing the three month training programme, it was found that there were no significant differences between the points of the experimental group's and control group's pre-test retention test. Conversely, parents indicate that values education program increased children's appropriate behaviours and decreased undesired the behaviours of children.

The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine ways in which adult education administrators define and apply critical thinking, problem solving, and learning to learn to their practices as well as in other areas of their lives. Participants included four female administrators in adult education programs at community college and state university settings. These individuals have advanced university degrees and experience with both teaching and administration. Data were collected by interview. An interview protocol was developed, designed to discover themes specifically related to participant's understanding and perceptions of: a) manifestations of critical thinking, problem solving, and learning to learn; b) similar concepts and processes by highly effective administrators; and c) similar concepts and processes as manifested by ineffective administrators. Their personal and professional backgrounds were also explored. Data were analyzed according to questions, which served as categories. Transcripts of the interviews were coded, then analyzed for themes within category. Themes that emerged from Category 1: Personal background, included educational background, daily work, career path, and understanding of themselves as adult learners. Themes within Category 2: Perceptions of critical thinking, problem solving, and learning to learn, in nonspecific terms, were organized by each of those components. Themes that emerged from both Category 3: Toward effective administration, and Category 4: Toward ineffective administration were parallel. These included overall impression, use of critical thinking, application of problem solving, learning to learn, and beliefs toward lifelong learning. One major area of concern that became evident in the data was respondents' inconsistent perception of the meaning or application of the concept of learning to learn; yet two areas of proficiency were identified by the respondents - communication and problem posing/ problem solving. Problem posing involves critical thinking and communication. Effective problem solving is facilitated by knowledge and practice of these skills and are needed to be well developed in the effective administrator. Two appendices are included: (1) Interview Protocol--Reasons behind the questions; and (2) Interview Protocol.

In the current study, we are interested to see if interacting in an informal science setting that encourages learning through play affects children’s definitions of play and learning. We will also ask parents for their definitions of playing and learning, to see if parents and children agree with one another or if there are differences.

The growing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education—particularly through Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT—has raised important questions about how these tools influence students’ learning outcomes. While some educators remain skeptical, the increasing use of AI-powered tools in solving academic problems is undeniable. Mathematics, with its structured logic and definitive solutions, offers a unique context to examine whether AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance problem-solving performance. This study investigates whether the use of ChatGPT, compared to traditional open-book methods, affects students’ accuracy and speed when solving a mathematical problem on sum to infinity of a geometric series.

The growing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education—particularly through Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT—has raised important questions about how these tools influence students’ learning outcomes. While some educators remain skeptical, the increasing use of AI-powered tools in solving academic problems is undeniable. Mathematics, with its structured logic and definitive solutions, offers a unique context to examine whether AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance problem-solving performance. This study investigates whether the use of ChatGPT, compared to traditional open-book methods, affects students’ accuracy and speed when solving a mathematical problem on sum to infinity of a geometric series.

The growing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education—particularly through Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT—has raised important questions about how these tools influence students’ learning outcomes. While some educators remain skeptical, the increasing use of AI-powered tools in solving academic problems is undeniable. Mathematics, with its structured logic and definitive solutions, offers a unique context to examine whether AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance problem-solving performance. This study investigates whether the use of ChatGPT, compared to traditional open-book methods, affects students’ accuracy and speed when solving a mathematical problem on sum to infinity of a geometric series.

This paper reports an experiment designed to test theoretical relations among fast problem solving, more complex and slower problem solving, and research concerning fundamental memory processes. Using a cathode ray tube, subjects were presented with propositions of the form "Y is in list X" which they memorized. In later testing they were asked to decide whether simple and compound statements involving the memorized facts were true or false. Solution times for the test problems were measured. Contrary to hypothesis it was found that the compound problems of the form "Y is in list X and Z is in list X" were solved as rapidly as simple statements. A modeling technique is suggested and rationalized. Suggestions for further research are offered. (SD)

  Problem-solving has a prominent role in STEM education. Several graphical and numerical-based approaches are being used for the integration of problem-solving with STEM education. Apart from these, several efforts were also carried out to integrate epistemological and motivational belief systems along with self-regulated learning strategies as contributing factors for STEM-based problem-solving. In the current study, the potential roles of students’ motivational and epistemological beliefs, and self-regulated learning strategies were explored for solving the problem. For this, an adopted questionnaire was utilized to measure the selected factors. The population of the current study included 120 teachers who were teaching in STEM schools. Data from 120 teachers were collected and analyzed. Findings showed that most teachers believed that problem-solving can uplift STEM education in Pakistan. In addition, teachers also believe that the implementation of STEM education is important, and the majority of the teachers agreed that the role of student beliefs play a significant role in enhancing their problem-solving ability. Interestingly, it was observed that the teachers were convinced that students' attitude, motivation and self-regulated learning strategies toward STEM education also play a vital role in their engagement and problem-solving. Based on current findings, important implications were outlined to promote culture for deep and meaningful learning.

Several developments during the last decades have provoked spectacular changes in both Mathematics Teaching and the Education of Mathematics Teachers. From this perspective of renovation, we wish to define a new context in mathematics teacher education in which we consider that "pedagogical content knowledge" (Shulman, 1993, Mellado, 1998; Blanco & Otano, 1999) has to be the knowledge base for the education of the future teachers. In the present work, using problem solving as reference, we explain our program and different types of activities which help to create learning environments referred to "learning to teach mathematics". These activities allow the prospective teachers to build up their own pedagogical content knowledge. (Contains 2 figures.)

The Randolph, New Jersey Intermediate School updated its industrial arts program to reflect the challenges and work force of the Twentieth Century in which students apply a design/problem-solving process to solve real-world problems. In the laboratory portion of the program, students circulate between workstations to define problems, complete research, develop solutions, build models, and evaluate their effectiveness. The first of three documents, "Program Description," describes that program in four parts. Part 1 provides a program description that discusses characteristics of the student population involved in the program; teacher and student materials developed for the program; and a history of the development of the program. Part 2 presents the goals of the four laboratory stations and a course of study. The four workstations are: (1) designing with structures; (2) control systems technology; (3) transportation modeling; and (4) computer graphic presentation. The course of study includes a statement of emphasis; a list of 18 course objectives; suggested time allotments per course unit; and an outline of course content by topic. Part 3 discusses research support for the course and a list of 15 references. Part 4 reports the program evaluation of the six criteria established for the program. Findings indicated that student learning was active; workstations were effective; project criteria were met; students portfolios were effective for individualized learning; and the course was cost-effective. A summary of Program Description Book 1 is provided. The second of three documents, "Teacher Materials," provides teacher materials for the implementation of the program. The materials are presented in six sections. The first section describes workstation activity use. The second section discusses teaching methodology that employs technological problem solving. The third section presents four technology learning modules involving: (1) vehicle and flight design; (2) structure modeling; (3) robotics/control technology; and (4) computer graphics. Each module includes a list of the primary concepts involved; a list of activities; performance objectives; needed vocabulary; integrated subjects; equipment needed; and a list of resources and references. The fourth section discusses workstation implementation strategies. The fifth section describes the technology laboratory environment. The sixth section discusses student evaluation techniques. The last of three documents, "Student Information," describes the workstation activities that the students can complete. The material is presented in five sections according to the different workstations: (1) vehicle transportation; (2) structure modeling; (3) lego-logo robotics; (4) computer graphics; and (5) flight modeling. Each section includes objectives to be completed at the workstation; a list of possible activities; and the design/problem solving process steps necessary to complete the activities. A series of worksheets to be completed by the student while performing workstation activities is provided. (MDH)

Clinical problem solving exercises for preclinical medical education that were developed at Michigan State University School of Osteopathic Medicine are described. Two types of outcomes were set as priorities in the design and implementation of the problem solving sessions: small group peer interactions as instructional and evaluative resources; and issues relevant to the process of clinical problem solving. The small group discussions focus on three critical issues relevant to clinical problem solving: the multiple dimensions of a health problem (biopathological, psychological, and socioeconomic); the use of a systematic clinical problem solving strategy to resolve these problems; and the documentation of the clinical encounter. It is proposed that educational innovations in clinical problem solving should be grounded in as much theory as possible and that medical students should practice their clinical reasoning processes during their undergraduate years through group discussion of simulated clinical cases. (SW)

A randomized posttest-only control group experimental design was used to determine the effects of think-aloud pair problem solving (TAPPS) on the troubleshooting performance of 34 secondary-level career and technical education students. There was no significant difference in success rate between TAPPS students and students who worked alone ([chi][superscript 2] (1) = 0.747, p = 0.39, [phi] = 0.148). There was no significant difference in completion time between students who successfully completed the troubleshooting task using TAPPS and those who were successful working alone (t (9) = -0.74, p = 0.48, d = 0.45). The researchers tentatively concluded that the use of TAPPS may not be an appropriate strategy at the secondary level if the agricultural instructors' focus is a higher success rate and a reduction in the time to complete the task. However, agricultural instructors may have other legitimate reasons for using TAPPS such as a way to facilitate collaborative learning or as a way for instructors to identify student misunderstandings that could be used to inform decisions about individualized or even group instructional interventions. (Contains 2 figures and 1 table.)

In the globalizing world, individuals should be educated well-qualified to be effective citizens and workers by adapting the information society of the 21st century. At this point, STEM education is considered to promote the construction and improvement of 21st century skills and competences needed for individuals’ living in today’s world. In light of this consideration, the purpose of the current research is to examine the effect of STEM education on pre-service science teachers’ (PSTs) perceptions of 21st century skills and competences and problem solving skills. In this research, a one group pre- and post-test design was conducted. The participants of the current study were 26 PSTs at a public university. The data of the study were collected with “21st Century Skills and Competences Scale” and “Problem Solving Inventory”. In the data analysis, the paired sample t test was used. Findings revealed that there is a statistically significant difference among pre- and post-test total and sub-factors scores of PSTs’ perceptions of both 21st century skills and competences and problem solving skills in favor of the post-test scores. These results suggest that STEM education have a potential to improve PSTs’ perceptions of 21st century skills and competences and problem solving skills.

To establish collaboration between theory and practice, between teaching and learning, and between researchers and teachers, a three-year project was initiated at Metcalf Laboratory School. Teachers were invited to explore reading comprehension and composition in their classrooms in a manner that supported unique teacher decision making and initiatives. Researchers helped teachers observe what they were doing, consider alternatives, and examine the potential of changes in practice. During the first year, researchers and teachers studied one of three topics: background knowledge, reading and writing relationships, and the role of discussion in reading instruction. In addition, teachers generated the equivalent of 15 mini-research projects ranging from the effects of different modes of discussion upon pupil involvement and the quality of their arguments to the effects of visualization experiences upon the reading of selected students in a low reading group. During the second year, each teacher chose to explore a single topic area in depth over the course of the year. The goal of the third year was to engage the teacher researchers in helping other teachers become teacher researchers. Based upon this experience, it is hoped the project can serve as a useful model for nurturing teacher change as well as translating reading and writing research into practice (and practice back into research). (HOD)

There are many factors that affect student engagement in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Underlying this are the views of the broader community--and parents in particular--about the relevance of STEM, and the approach to the teaching and learning of STEM from the early years and continuing throughout schooling. Connected to this is the way industry articulates the importance of STEM related-skills that extend beyond traditional STEM occupations. University admissions policies also have a strong influence on student choices in the senior secondary years. The purpose of the strategy is to build on a range of reforms and activities already underway. It aims to better coordinate and target this effort and sharpen the focus on the key areas where collaborative action will deliver improvements to STEM education. The national strategy is focused on action that lifts foundational skills in STEM learning areas, develops mathematical, scientific and technological literacy, and promotes the development of the 21st century skills of problem solving, critical analysis and creative thinking. It recognises the importance of a focus on STEM in the early years and maintaining this focus throughout schooling. This document outlines two goals (ensure all students finish school with strong foundational knowledge in STEM and related skills; and ensure that students are inspired to take on more challenging STEM subjects), five areas for national action, and guiding principles for schools to support STEM education. [Cover title varies: "National STEM School Education Strategy, 2016-2026."]

The high dependence on technology for economic activities in developed countries stresses the importance of lifelong learning in order to equip adult workers with the skills required to perform work related tasks, and also increase labor force participation. We use data from the 2012/2014 Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) to examine relationships among problem solving skills in technology-rich environments (PSTRE), participation in adult education and training (AET), and income in Australia, Finland, Japan (high PSTRE scoring countries), Chile, Greece (low PSTRE scoring countries), Ireland, Estonia, and the United States (similarly scoring countries). Although PIAAC measured literacy, numeracy, and PSTRE skills, our research focus is on PSTRE because of its emphasis on problem-solving skills and critical thinking. These skills are undoubtedly important in any global economy currently experiencing rapid technological transformation. In four of five age groups, Japan had the highest PSTRE scores. With the exception of Greece, PIAAC respondents in the oldest age group had lower PSTRE scores than younger age groups. Men had higher PSTRE scores than women in all countries except Australia and Greece. Overall, those with higher PSTRE scores were more likely to participate in AET but there were variations by age, income, and education categories. Greater PSTRE scores were associated with higher hourly wages in the U.S. Australia and Estonia whereas no significant association was observed in other countries. With limited availability of data, females benefited financially from higher PSTRE scores more than males in the U.S., Finland, Ireland and Japan.

This case study demonstrates how the Osborne-Parnes Creative Problem-solving Model (CPS) can be used to enhance teacher creativity through the collaborative and inviting processes found within Invitational Education, which counter the individualistic and product-oriented enterprises often associated with creative endeavors. Conclusions indicate that the model's three stages guided, via sequenced divergent and convergent thinking strategies, teacher curricular decision-making and, ultimately, the learning opportunities provided to students. The CPS framework encouraged participants to engage in and experience optimism, trust, respect, care, and intentionality, which are the five value-based assumptions of Invitational Education. (Contains 1 figure.)

The challenge of better reconciling individual and collective aspects of innovative problem-solving can be productively addressed to enhance the role of PBL as a key focus of the creative process in future higher education. This should involve "active learning" approaches supported by related processes of teaching, assessment and curriculum. As Biggs & Tan (2011) have suggested, an integrated or systemic approach is needed for the most effective practice of outcomes-based education also especially relevant for addressing relatively simple as well as more complex problems. Such a model will be discussed in relation to the practical example of a Masters subject conceived with interdisciplinary implications, applications, and transferability: "sustainable policy studies in science, technology and innovation". Different modes of PBL might be encouraged in terms of the authentic kinds of "complex problem-solving" issues and challenges which increasingly confront an interdependent and changing world. PBL can be further optimized when projects or cases also involve contexts and examples of research and inquiry. However, perhaps the most crucial pillar is a model of portfolio assessment for linking and encouraging as well as distinguishing individual contributions to collaborative projects and activities.

This study compared two approaches for teaching sixth-grade middle school students to solve math problems in math, technology education, and special education classrooms. A total of 17 students with disabilities and 76 students without disabilities were taught using either enhanced anchored instruction (EAI) or text-based instruction coupled with applied problems (TBI). Results showed that both EAI and TBI students benefited from instruction in their math class, but EAI students were able to maintain and transfer what they learned in the technology education classroom several weeks later. The performance level of students with disabilities was low in both groups, but additional small-group instruction in special education settings helped several students with disabilities achieve at levels commensurate with their peers without disabilities. (Contains 1 figure and 3 tables.)

This study investigated college teachers' reported uses of instructional strategies that include realistic problem-solving based on technology competencies recommended by the International Society for Technology in Education and adopted by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Data were collected from Arkansas faculty who taught methods courses at colleges of education accredited by the NCATE. Data from 125 faculty members (56% response rate) show that reporting faculty from Arkansas are integrating computers into their instruction in three main areas: (1) use of e-mail and the Internet; (2) use of the World Wide Web for problem solving; and (3) use of word processing to generate booklets, reports, and newsletters. The reported use of databases or spreadsheets was just above the median score of 2.0. Simulation software and spreadsheets for authentic problem solving were seldom or never used. (Contains 5 tables, 2 figures, and 23 references.) (Author/SLD)

This book contains selected research papers presented at seminars held throughout the year 2000 in Finland by members of the Finnish Association for Research in Mathematics and Science Education (FARMSE) and students at the Finnish Graduate School of Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry Education. This volume also contains papers professor Laurence Viennot, Universite Paris VII, France and professor Georgios Tsaparlis, University of Ioannina, Greece, who gave lectures and workshops at the spring seminar of the Graduate School in Joensuu, Finland, and by professor Erikki Pehkonen, who gave a lecture at the summer seminar in Vaasa, Finland. Papers include: (1) "The Finnish Graduate School of Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry Education" (Maija Ahte and Virpi Vatanen); (2) "A Hidden Regulating Factor in Mathematics Classrooms: Mathematics-Related Beliefs" (Erkki Pehkonen); (3) "Primary School Teachers' Mathematics Beliefs, Teaching Practices and Use of Textbooks" (Paivi Perkkila); (4) "Mathematics for Primary School Teachers" (Silja Pesonen); (5) "The Metalevel of Cognition-Emotion Interaction" (Markku S. Hannula); (6) "Problem Solving in Chemistry and Science Education" (Georgios Tsaparlis); (7) "Physics Education Research: Inseparable Contents and Methods--The Part Played by Critical Details" (Laurence Viennot); (8) "The Force Concept Inventory in Diagnosing the Conceptual Understanding of Newtonian Mechanics in Finnish Upper Secondary Schools" (Johanna Jauhiainen, Ismo T. Koponen, and Jari Lavonen); and (9) "An Evaluation of Interactive Teaching Methods in Mechanics: Using the Force Concept Inventory To Monitor Student Learning" (Antti Savinainen). (Most papers contain references.) (YDS)

A systematic review of the relationship of cognitive variables to students learning and problem solving with more than two external representations in STEM education.

A systematic review of the relationship of cognitive variables to students learning and problem solving with more than two external representations in STEM education.

In the present situation virtual education has made emphasis on educational technology and communication system. It is expected that approaches of Virtual Education during COVID19 Pandemic would give a paradigm shift to higher education from its traditional form to a program relevant to the context of present education. The real intellectual challenge of teaching lies in the opportunity for individual teachers to observe the impact of their teaching on students learning. The crucial step is to incorporate ICT appropriately in the curricula of higher education programs. This would enable the prospective teachers as well as in service higher education teachers to implement ICT successfully in the teaching-learning situation for the promotion of virtual education. In the context of globalization, we are studying and using different approaches, ways of teaching and different media. The objective of the paper was to find out how teachers with the use of the latest technologies have learnt to transform their thinking and feelings which help them not only to transfer their expressions of content but they have developed the courage to act out their values with the help of virtual education. This paper has majorly tried to focus the different methods of virtual learning in promoting Higher Order Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD, 2013) defines its views on necessary skills for 21st century citizenship and life-long learning, advocating a generic skillset of literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving in technology-rich environments. Other sources also include critical thinking as a vital 21st Century skill. There are also those who question the concept of 21st Century skills, claiming that, although very important, these skills are in fact old and have been around for decades, or even centuries. Therefore, in many countries, skills such as critical thinking and problem-solving are already addressed in technology education as part of the core subject matter, especially regarding competencies connected to technological literacy. Critical thinking and particularly problem-solving have been well researched in technology education, but seldom from the teacher's point of view. The aim of this article is to investigate Swedish compulsory school technology teachers' views on problemsolving and critical thinking as curriculum components and as skills addressed in teaching. Twenty-one teachers were subjected to in-depth qualitative interviews. The findings of the study show that the interviewed teachers can be said to express three approaches to teaching about technology in a critical thinking and problem-solving mode: (1) the design approach, (2) the systems approach, and (3) the values approach. Even though the present Swedish technology curriculum does not explicitly mention these skills, the teachers say they incorporate critical thinking and problem-solving in different settings within the subject of technology. Problem-solving and critical thinking are not seen as generic capabilities but they are always connected to, and integrated with, subject content in technology by the teachers. The teachers mix the approaches depending on the teaching content, especially when teaching about complex technology, although there is a tendency to disregard critical thinking capabilities when dealing with design, and neglect problem-solving skills when addressing values.

Courses designed to teach problem-solving and creativity, which are relatively new additions to college curricula, are discussed, along with their intellectual foundations and research on these two processes. The teaching of these processes involves the following course goals: teaching a specific subject, generally useful skills, and professional skills. Problem-solving applications are considered first. A subject may be taught through use of a guided design approach, which involves following a series of steps that lead to a solution. Teaching generally useful skills focuses on a set of strategies and heuristics rather than on a series of specific steps to be followed. Programs attempt to help students become better thinkers. Teaching professional skills can be illustrated by a problem-based approach to medical education. Information, concepts, and skills learned by students are put into their memory in association with a problem. Creative learning and discovery experiences can be part of learning a subject. Usually, programs teaching creativity as a generally useful tool use heuristics (e.g., asking students to think like an inventor or encouraging them to reach a high level of abstract reasoning). Teaching specific skills for the development of creativity are found in both the sciences and the arts. (SW)

Research in science education is to discover the truth which involves the combination of reasoning and experiences. In order to find out appropriate teaching methods that are necessary for teaching science students problem-solving skills, different research approaches are used by educational researchers based on the data collection and analysis used at a given time. Though qualitative and quantitative research methods lies on separate continuum, they all aimed at identifying educational problems using different approach. This study critically examined the usefulness of both qualitative and quantitative approaches in researching problem-solving ability in science education curriculum. In doing this, six articles relating to problem-solving were examined to show the usefulness of both qualitative and quantitative research approaches to educational research. Advantages, disadvantages, strengths and weaknesses of both methods were discussed. Ethical consideration in relation to research in problem-solving instructions were discussed as well as suggestion for future research.

This guide is designed as a tool to help members of the education sector involve community members in discussions about their local schools and learn how to become involved in the process of improving education in their community. The first half of the guide presents basic material for conducting a four- to seven-session discussion program based on the study circle model. Materials dealing with the following discussion topics are included: how schools affect communities and community members' lives; what community members want graduates to know and be able to do; how schools can meet every students' needs, make schools safer, deal with racial and ethnic diversity, and provide high quality education with limited resources; and what community members can do to improve education. The next section presents basic "how-to" materials on the following aspects of the study circle process: the structure, goals, and operation of study circles; organizing and leading study circles on education; and suggestions for participants. Concluding the guide is a listing of 13 organizations, 39 publications, and 7 videos dealing with community involvement in improving education, as well as the sources of the 5 "schools that work" stories included in the preceding section. (MN)

In this article, the Creative Technology Education Project (CTEP) is presented, and phases of problem-solving processes in which the participating primary school student teachers generate alternatives and evaluate ideas are analyzed. The aims of this project were to introduce technology education goals and contents to these students, as well as to offer tools for learning and teaching technology, and to facilitate personal growth. One purpose of the project was to encourage the students to become familiar with technology and problem-solving processes and to develop especially creative skills and abilities (e.g., ideation and the evaluation of ideas). For these purposes, a model was introduced, named the Overall Mapping of a Problem Situation (OMPS). This model helps students in ideation (the generation of alternative solutions) and evaluation of ideas when working on project teams. This model was practiced with concrete technology education projects. Thus, the project focus was on collaborative problem solving, with special emphasis on ideation and the positive evaluation of ideas. The purpose of the study presented in this article was to discover how students perceive the creative process and to what extent they learn creative skills, especially those that involve generating alternative ideas and the self-evaluation of these alternatives. This case study indicates that creative problem-solving approaches may be efficiently used to improve teacher education. (Contains 1 figure and 1 table.)

This paper deals with the events that led to a need for problem-solving measures in the Richmond, Virginia, Public Schools, and describes the planning strategies that have evolved since 1973. Events of the late 1960s and early 70s that had a major impact on the school system included three changes of superintendents (that brought three reorganizations), court-ordered desegregation plans, court-ordered annexation, and a court suit seeking consolidation of the metropolitan school systems. The fall of 1973 marked the beginning of the massive planning project. The development of the school system's educational planning capability can be viewed in two stages, each described in this report. Stage 1 was known as the Educational Services Priority Planning Program or ESP-3 and was based almost entirely on a participatory planning strategy. Stage 2 of the development of planning capability was a more formalized approach and is considered in this paper as having begun with the formation of a department of planning and development. (Author/MLF)

The absence of suitable instruments to measure scientific inquiry skills, and the inability of teachers to construct their own tests to measure mastery of science skills led the Peterborough County (Ontario) Board of Education to develop skill-oriented curriculum guidelines in response to changes in Ministry of Education priorities in science. Skills of scientific inquiry were identified, levels of student growth for each skill were described, and a pool of test items with a teachers' manual was developed. The primary impact of the project is to give teachers a practical tool that will provide them with feedback on student skill development and the effects of the science program. The project is also to promote a generalizable approach to curriculum development. Successful completion of the project will increase curricular skills of the participants, and dissemination of the products will heighten support for this approach to curricular innovation. (Author/GK)

This guide is designed to involve people in study circles in discussing and taking action on community changes caused by immigration. A foreword introduces immigration and race relations, education, language differences, and job opportunities and defines study circles. Session 1 gives individuals the opportunity to share their personal experiences, stories, and views and sets the tone for open, respectful discussion in future sessions. Session 2 considers the issue of how immigration changes the community from various views. Session 3 considers the issue of how immigration changes the economic life of the community, again from various views. Session 4A provides several views about what direction a community's policies could take with regard to immigration and community change. Session 4B deals with meeting with Congressional representatives or senators, participants in other study circles in the community, or possibly state and local government officials. It offers a means of strengthening cooperation throughout the community and from different levels of government. Each session provides questions or views as starting points for discussion. Session 5 contains a list of action examples for how an individual might make a difference on immigration-related issues, including actions one might take as an individual, action projects that small groups of people can undertake, and actions that the whole community can take. Guidelines for study circle participants conclude the guide. (YLB)

Whether teaching in a classroom or a Massive Online Open Course it is crucial to present the material in a way that benefits the audience as a whole. We identify two important tasks to solve towards this objective; (1) group students so that they can maximally benefit from peer interaction and (2) find an optimal schedule of the educational material for each group. Thus, in this paper we solve the problem of team formation and content scheduling for education. Given a time frame "d," a set of students S with their required need to learn different activities T and given "k" as the number of desired groups, we study the problem of finding "k" group of students. The goal is to teach students within time frame "d" such that their potential for learning is maximized and find the best schedule for each group. We show this problem to be NP-hard and develop a polynomial algorithm for it. We show our algorithm to be effective both on synthetic as well as a real data set. For our experiments we use real data on students' grades in a Computer Science department. As part of our contribution we release a semi-synthetic dataset that mimics the properties of the real data. [For complete proceedings, see ED560503.]

This paper, prepared for a symposium on the interface of computer sciences and statistics, addresses the use of computers in the teaching of statistics. Two principle means of integrating the fields of computer science education with education in statistics are identified: (1) integrating the content of statistics in courses on computers, and (2) using computers as a method of statistics instruction. The first half of the paper provides a review of six textbooks in current use; three present statistical concepts and problems as examples of programming problems, while the remaining three are designed to teach statistics using computers as an aid in problem solving. The second half of the paper is devoted to a review of research and evaluation findings related to computer assisted instruction, simulations, and both interactional and non-interactional statistical packages. A bibliography containing 62 titles is included. (SD)