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Updated: Jun 20, 2026

Problem-Solving Before Instruction (PS-I): A Protocol for Assessment and Intervention in Students with Different Abilities
Published on: September 11, 2021
Psychology's role in mathematics and science education
Nora S Newcombe1, Nalini Ambady, Jacquelynne Eccles
1Department of Psychology, Temple University, 1701 North 13th Street, Room 318, Philadelphia, PA 19122-6085, USA. newcombe@temple.edu
Abstract:
Improving mathematics and science education in the United States has been a matter of national concern for over half a century. Psychology has a vital role to play in this enterprise. In this article, the authors review the kinds of contributions that psychology can make in four areas: (a) early understanding of mathematics, (b) understanding of science, (c) social and motivational aspects of involvement in mathematics and science, and (d) assessment of learning in mathematics and science. They also examine challenges to psychology's playing a central and constructive role and make recommendations for overcoming those challenges.
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