A practical for students to experience a process plant is presented, based on operating a solvent absorption plant for carbon dioxide capture. The student must operate the plant in assigned roles that closely identify with a chemical plant environment, to achieve specific performance targets. Students must overcome technical challenges that…

Recent college graduates are entering a competitive workforce that demands strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. However, many recent surveys and reports describe college graduates as deficient in these skills. For two courses at separate institutions, we each framed a course as a job, playing the role of a supervisor or…

Explores the use of simulations as a teaching method for gifted students. Identifies positive effects of simulations and distinguishes different types. Notes disadvantages related to time, money, and experience as are unique features of the teacher's role in this approach to instruction. Lists guidelines for choosing a model and deciding on a…

Classroom creative problem-solving activities were developed around clearly defined problems having many possible solutions and entailing a situation where reality is slightly skewed. Working in small groups, students role-play by becoming "experts" at the matter in hand. A group secretary keeps students accountable for their time. Problem-solving…

Problem-solving is a necessary stage for all learning. Students who are learning English must pass through such a stage. The teacher must isolate problem-solving activities for use in the classroom. Role-playing, music and games (language puzzles, verbal or board games, action games) are suitable activities. (CFM)

The celebration of an annual event turned into a 5-week project on medieval life for a kindergarten class. Children were active participants in the planning and execution of the project in which they created a medieval kingdom. A variety of activities enabled the children to further develop skills and expand their knowledge of the topic. (TJQ)

Describes a role-playing activity designed for secondary students. Four modern dilemmas facing individuals in a changing society are presented. The students assume the roles of those who would be involved in decision making to solve these dilemmas. (DB)

The concept and intercultural application of a "common sense" approach to communication deserves close scrutiny. In an intercultural context, "common sense" should be renamed "cultural perception." In fact, there is nothing that can universally transcend culture and be called "common sense.""Common…

Values of games as teaching strategies are outlined. In the simulation described in this paper students assume certain roles, analyze information, and make decisions. This is an example of how gaming might be used in a problem solving situation in a high school or college classroom. (SM)

Presents suggestions for ways elementary school teachers can use Dr. Seuss's "The Butter Battle Book" in class to confront issues of conflict and peace. (BB)

The article presents several activities designed to sharpen students' listening and observation skills and help them practice finding and evaluating alternatives to classroom conflicts and conflicts they may encounter elsewhere. Activities include solution skits, role playing, reading and writing conflict stories, and making comic strips. (SM)

Research has shown that although university instructors of English as a Second Language are aware of the benefits that active learning can bring the student, teacher-centered, traditional lecture method classes are still the norm. Resistance to change is due in part to large class sizes, limited instruction hours, and the perception that proactive…

Teaching activities useful in enriching the classroom teaching of English as a second language are compiled from the relevant literature. Many are adapted from sources concerned with the teaching of languages other than English. Separate sections present suggestions of specific group activities or games involving audiovisual materials, discussion…

The benefits of using drama as a teaching technique became evident in the Work Orientation program at the Philippine Refugee Processing Center when a team of teachers presented two plays for their lower-level students. Students enjoyed the activity and were able to discuss work-related problems freely. As a result, the students' self esteem was…