Thesis (Ph. D.)--Ohio State University, 2003. / Title from first page of PDF file. Document formatted into pages; contains xi, 230 p.; also includes graphics (some col.). Includes abstract and vita. Advisor: Clark Mount-Campbell, Dept. of Industrial, Welding and Systems Engineering. Includes bibliographical references (p. 224-230).

Research study on sixth grade problem-posing instruction: Case of addition, subtraction and number comparison on decimals Abstract The aim of this research project is to investigate the implementation of problem-posing instruction on decimals to one sixth-grade mathematics class. There are four research objectives: 1) design and implement problem-posing instruction on decimals; 2) discuss the status of children¡¦s performance in problem-solving; 3) analyze the type of problems posed by children; and, 4) display categories of misconceptions exhibited when children did problem posing. The stages for instructions were three: 1) children solved the problem given by the instructor; 2) children referred to given problem and posed a problem; and, 3) children solved their own problem. In this study, the type of problem posing chosen for instruction is ¡§similar problem¡¨, which is adapted from Tsubota, a Japan scholar. The researcher collected data by using: own constructed decimal problems question sheet, worksheet on problem solving, worksheet on problem posing, children¡¦s diaries and teachers¡¦ notes on instruction. There are four findings. First, the implementation of sixth grade problem-posing instruction on decimals is feasible. Second, 96.9% of students¡¦ problems are plausible and contain sufficient information for problem solvers. Most students could change the number and content of the question but few revised the structure of the question. There was also multiple development for those problems. Third, children¡¦s performance in posing/solving stage was better than that in problem-solving stage. Finally, the researcher reported that the teacher faced problems such as difficulty in control of time, establishing children¡¦s habit in reporting, and collecting misconceptions of children. Key word : problem solving; problem posing; addition, subtraction and number comparison on decimals

“After the group had played [improvisation] game[s]…colours became brighter, people and spaces seem of a different size, focus is sharper. Our normal thinking dulls perception…” Keith Johnstone (1979, pg. 131) Improvisation is considered to be both the process and product of creativity. It involves the creation of new ideas, on the spur of the moment that are novel and unplanned. Spontaneity, the ability to do something on the spot with no prior preparation is seen as a key element of improvisation and distinction in relation to creativity. The process of improvisation involves thinking in different ways and as a result, could influence our thought processes. It is important to note here that while we are interested in the process of improvisation, it is only possible to measure this through the product. The product is therefore seen as a direct outcome of the process of thinking that occurs during improvisation. It has been suggested that improvisation could relate to cognitive processes (Karakelle, 2009; Schmidt, Goforth & Drew, 1975; Scott, Harris & Rothe, 2001). This program of research therefore aims to identify the cognitive changes in relation to the process of improvisation. This is measured by looking at cognitive tasks pre and post improvisation. Several studies were therefore conducted investigating the effects of improvisation on various cognitive abilities, with a focus on differences between divergent and convergent thinking; (i) the Effect of Verbal Improvisation on Mood, Creativity and Cognition; (ii) verbal improvisation in relation to divergent and convergent thinking; (iii) dance improvisation in relation to divergent and convergent thinking; (iv) Divergent thinking; Differences among expert and novice improvisers and (v) length of Treatment; Cognitive effects following a shorter improvisation treatment length. As a result of the above experiments, results were extended to a clinical sample of Parkinson’s disease. An extensive investigation was also carried out investigating the scoring of method of the Alternative Uses Task (AUT; Guilford, 1957b). Furthermore, the level of cognitive load as a result of improvisation was investigated by observing gesture in improvisation. Taken together, results showed that after a series of verbal improvisation activities, participants improved in scores of divergent thinking tasks. However, this was not observed in scores of convergent thinking tasks. Issues surrounding reliability of the scoring method of the AUT were also discussed. However, this did not affect the consistency of the results observed in this program of research. A theory of schemas was applied to the process of improvisation as a result of the cognitive changes that occured, such that improvisation helps people think in more original and flexible ways by improving access to schemas and working memory.

Cette thèse a pour objet l’étude de l'apport de l’introduction des technologies de l'information et de la communication pour l'enseignement (TICE) dans le processus enseignement-apprentissage de l'algorithmique chez les apprenants débutants, en particulier une application de simulation d'algorithmes (AlgoBox). L'utilisation de cet artefact computationnel a pour objectif de proposer une contribution afin de juguler le problème du fort taux d'échec constaté par les responsables administratifs et pédagogiques depuis plusieurs années dans l'enseignement de l'algorithmique et de la programmation à l'Ecole Normale Supérieure de l’Enseignement Technique (ENSET) de Libreville. Ainsi, la mise en place d'un dispositif expérimental conformément aux hypothèses émises et faisant suite à une première expérimentation d'identification et d'analyse de certains indicateurs, a permis de faire l'étude de l'apport du logiciel de simulation d'algorithme. Au terme de cette recherche, il est établi une légère augmentation des performances des apprenants vraisemblablement due non seulement à l’apport de l’artefact, mais aussi à la réactivation des connaissances liées aux savoirs implicites portées par la tâche prescrite. Il convient donc de préconiser d’accompagner l’usage de cette application par la mise en œuvre d’une nouvelle approche afin de permettre la construction d’une pédagogie adaptée (Ginestié, 2008). / This thesis has for object to study of the contribution of the introduction of the TICE's in the teaching-learning process of the algorithmics to the novice learners, in particular an application of simulation of algorithmics (AlgoBox). The use of this computational artifact aims at proposing a contribution in order to solvat the problem of the high rate of failure noticed by the administratives and pedagogicals responsibles for several years in the teaching of the algorithmics and programmations at Ecole Normale Supérieure de l'Enseignement Technique (ENSET) of Libreville.Thereby the implementation of an experimental device according to the emitted hypotheses and following upon a first experiment of identification and analysis of certain indicators, has allowed making the study of the contribution of the simulation software of algorithm. At the end of this research, it is therefore note a slight increase in the performances of the learners most probably due not only to the contribution of the artifact, but also to the reactivation of implicit knowledge carried out by the prescribed task. It is thus advisable to foresee to accompany the use of this application by the implementation a new approach so as to allow the construction of an adapted pedagogy (Ginestie, 2008).

Problem solving is one of the central activities performed by computer scientists as well as by computer science learners. Whereas the teaching of algorithms and programming languages is usually well structured within a curriculum, the development of learners’ problem-solving skills is largely implicit and less structured. Students at all levels often face difficulties in problem analysis and solution construction. The basic assumption of the workshop is that without some formal instruction on effective strategies, even the most inventive learner may resort to unproductive trial-and-error problemsolving processes. Hence, it is important to teach problem-solving strategies and to guide teachers on how to teach their pupils this cognitive tool. Computer science educators should be aware of the difficulties and acquire appropriate pedagogical tools to help their learners gain and experience problem-solving skills.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Texas at Austin, 2000. / Vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 143-150). Available also in a digital version from Dissertation Abstracts.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Texas at Austin, 2000. / Vita. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 143-150). Available also in a digital version from Dissertation Abstracts.

This thesis provides some new insight into children’s strategies and behaviours relating to problem solving. Problem solving is one of the main aims in the renewed mathematics National Curriculum 2014 and has appeared in the Using and Applying strands of previous National Curriculums. A review of the literature provided some analysis of the types of published problem solving activities and attempted to construct a definition of problem solving activities. The literature review also demonstrated this study’s relevance. It is embedded in the fact that at the time of this study there was very little current research on problem solving and in particular practitioner research. This research was conducted through practitioner research in a focus institution. The motivation for this research was, centred round the curiosity as to whether the children (Year Six, aged 10 -11 years old) in the focus institution could apply their mathematics to problem solving activities. There was some concern that these children were learning mathematics in such a way as to pass examinations and were not appreciating the subject. A case study approach was adopted using in-depth observations in one focus institution. The observations of a sample of Year Six children engaged in mathematical problem solving activities generated rich data in the form of audio, video recordings, field notes and work samples. The data was analysed using the method of thematic analysis utilising Nvivo 10 to code the data. These codes were further condensed to final overarching themes. Further discussion of the data shows both mathematical and non-mathematical overarching themes. These themes are discussed in more depth within this study. It is hoped that this study provides some new insights into children’s strategies and behaviours relating to problem solving in mathematics.

O presente trabalho aborda a questão dos resíduos de serviços (RSS), que representa um dos grandes problemas decorrentes da relação homem-meio ambiente. A partir do levantamento da situação dos RSS e da necessidade de orientação de sessenta e sete serviços de saúde de Ribeirão Preto, incluindo 100% dos hospitais e 30% de farmácias, laboratórios, ambulatórios e clínicas veterinárias que faziam parte da Coleta Especial e Incineração implantados, realizou-se um trabalho educativo com cento e vinte e sete trabalhadores de saúde, visando torná-los agentes multiplicadores do curso, em seus locais de trabalho. Para isso, foi utilizado o método de educação conscientizadora, visando facilitar aos trabalhadores de saúde adquirirem uma consciência ecológica crítica, capaz de tornálos agentes de mudança, interferindo positivamente nas questões específicas dos RSS. Dois meses após o curso, procedeu-se a uma avaliação final, onde puderam ser constatadas algumas mudanças nos serviços, a partir da conscientização de seus trabalhadores que, de um modo geral, passaram as informações obtidas no curso para seus colegas de trabalho. Concluiu-se que é imprescindível a criação de um sistema de educação continuada nos serviços de saúde de Ribeirão Preto, bem como um re-planejamento de suas instalações, visando melhor adaptação ao sistema de gerenciamento de RSS da cidade, considerado inadequado em 69,2% dos hospitais e em 100% dos ambulatórios. Como conclusão final, o trabalho também permitiu verificar as possibilidades e os limites da ação educativa do Enfermeiro, no campo da Educação Ambiental. Dentre as recomendações feitas, há a necessidade de que todos os serviços de saúde façam parte, imediatamente, do programa de Coleta Especial e Incineração de resíduos da cidade, o que foi constatado em cerca de apenas um terço deles. É preciso, também, que os órgãos públicos locais de controle e fiscalização dos serviços de saúde se reorganizem entre si e integrados com a Universidade, para uma 157 atuação mais efetiva sobre esses estabelecimentos, em relação ao gerenciamento dos RSS, destacando-se, assim, a contribuição da Universidade, não apenas para com o ensino e pesquisa, mas também estendendo seus conhecimentos à sociedade. / The present study approaches the question of health service waste (HSW) which represents one of the great problems caused by the man-environment interaction. Based on a survey of the HSW situation and of the need to establish guidelines for 67 health services in Ribeirão Preto whith respect to waste management, including 100% of the hospitals and 30% of the drugstores, laboratories, ambulatories an veterinary clinics which participate in the Special Collection and Incineration Servive, an educational program was offered to 127 health workers in order to turn them into multipliers of the course at their work places. The method of consciousness-raising education was used in order to permit health workers to acquire a critical ecological awareness capable of turning them into agents of change by positively interfering with specific HSW questions. A final evaluation was performed two months after the course, which showed that some changes had been made in the services starting from the awareness of the workers who, in general, had transmitted the information acquired in the course to their coworkers. It was concluded that it is imperative to set up a continued education system in the health services of Ribeirão Preto, as well as to replan their installations in order to obtain a better adaptation to the city system of HSW management. The final conclusion of this study permited to verify the possibilities and the limits of education activity of nurse in the field of environmental education. This study proposes that all health services to immediately join the Special Collection an Incineration program of the city, which now serves only 1/3 of the health services, and the local public organs of control and inspection of health services should reorganize amongst themselves and join the University for a more effective action on these concerns in terms of HSW management.

O presente trabalho aborda a questão dos resíduos de serviços (RSS), que representa um dos grandes problemas decorrentes da relação homem-meio ambiente. A partir do levantamento da situação dos RSS e da necessidade de orientação de sessenta e sete serviços de saúde de Ribeirão Preto, incluindo 100% dos hospitais e 30% de farmácias, laboratórios, ambulatórios e clínicas veterinárias que faziam parte da Coleta Especial e Incineração implantados, realizou-se um trabalho educativo com cento e vinte e sete trabalhadores de saúde, visando torná-los agentes multiplicadores do curso, em seus locais de trabalho. Para isso, foi utilizado o método de educação conscientizadora, visando facilitar aos trabalhadores de saúde adquirirem uma consciência ecológica crítica, capaz de tornálos agentes de mudança, interferindo positivamente nas questões específicas dos RSS. Dois meses após o curso, procedeu-se a uma avaliação final, onde puderam ser constatadas algumas mudanças nos serviços, a partir da conscientização de seus trabalhadores que, de um modo geral, passaram as informações obtidas no curso para seus colegas de trabalho. Concluiu-se que é imprescindível a criação de um sistema de educação continuada nos serviços de saúde de Ribeirão Preto, bem como um re-planejamento de suas instalações, visando melhor adaptação ao sistema de gerenciamento de RSS da cidade, considerado inadequado em 69,2% dos hospitais e em 100% dos ambulatórios. Como conclusão final, o trabalho também permitiu verificar as possibilidades e os limites da ação educativa do Enfermeiro, no campo da Educação Ambiental. Dentre as recomendações feitas, há a necessidade de que todos os serviços de saúde façam parte, imediatamente, do programa de Coleta Especial e Incineração de resíduos da cidade, o que foi constatado em cerca de apenas um terço deles. É preciso, também, que os órgãos públicos locais de controle e fiscalização dos serviços de saúde se reorganizem entre si e integrados com a Universidade, para uma 157 atuação mais efetiva sobre esses estabelecimentos, em relação ao gerenciamento dos RSS, destacando-se, assim, a contribuição da Universidade, não apenas para com o ensino e pesquisa, mas também estendendo seus conhecimentos à sociedade. / The present study approaches the question of health service waste (HSW) which represents one of the great problems caused by the man-environment interaction. Based on a survey of the HSW situation and of the need to establish guidelines for 67 health services in Ribeirão Preto whith respect to waste management, including 100% of the hospitals and 30% of the drugstores, laboratories, ambulatories an veterinary clinics which participate in the Special Collection and Incineration Servive, an educational program was offered to 127 health workers in order to turn them into multipliers of the course at their work places. The method of consciousness-raising education was used in order to permit health workers to acquire a critical ecological awareness capable of turning them into agents of change by positively interfering with specific HSW questions. A final evaluation was performed two months after the course, which showed that some changes had been made in the services starting from the awareness of the workers who, in general, had transmitted the information acquired in the course to their coworkers. It was concluded that it is imperative to set up a continued education system in the health services of Ribeirão Preto, as well as to replan their installations in order to obtain a better adaptation to the city system of HSW management. The final conclusion of this study permited to verify the possibilities and the limits of education activity of nurse in the field of environmental education. This study proposes that all health services to immediately join the Special Collection an Incineration program of the city, which now serves only 1/3 of the health services, and the local public organs of control and inspection of health services should reorganize amongst themselves and join the University for a more effective action on these concerns in terms of HSW management.