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Re: Saxon Politics
Posted:
Sep 26, 1995 5:29 PM
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DanH was overheard saying:
>There's kind of a silly notion that the only place to do "problem solving" is
>in a group using manipulatives or ruminating over a TI-XX. You know we've all
>got a pretty good problem solving arena between our two ears. It's called the
>brain.
>
>I think people who ask questions about Saxon and problem solving need to
>explain the seemingly magic notion of "teaching problem solving". I'm not
>sure that's possible. I think the best we can do is demonstrate how to bring
>basic knowledge and skills to bear to solve problems.
Interesting point Dan. I recall posting some thoughts on this several
months back. The post related that there are actually three different
approaches to problem solving. There is teaching about problem solving,
teaching for problem solving and teaching via problem solving(artical by
Thomas L. Schroder and Frank K. Lester Jr.). I would agree with you on the
first two approaches but the last one is very possible and effective as
well. The problem can actually drive the coarse and learning is
accomplished in that setting.
>
>Have you ever had the misfortune of being behind a golfing foursome who has
>never had lessons and doesn't know the rules of play? Most would do very well
>to learn the basics on the driving range then try playing the game. Question.
>Does Steve Young spend more time on the practice field or in a game? Does
>Pavarotti only sing at La Scala? Is math really that different?
>
Ouch, not another sports analogy?!! Must we always revert?
>My rule on problem solving activities is to keep them short (never over a
>period), well-defined, and keep the cooperative groups on a very short leash
>(which means grading them for group skills as well as content).
>
>Hart
Interesting rules. What happens when interest is sparked? Do you cut it
off? What is ment by well defined? Problem? Directions? what? Wow even
using a little alternate assesment, eh?
scott
Scott Powell
University of Hawaii
University Labratory School
1776 University Ave.
Honolulu, Hi. 96822
powell@math.ed.hawaii.edu
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