Discusses the use of Microsoft Excel software and provides examples of its use in an online statistics course at Golden Gate University in the areas of randomness and probability, sampling distributions, confidence intervals, and regression analysis. (LRW)

Presents a variety of problems for elementary and secondary school students that focus on probability. Activities involving coins, M & M candies, and the game show "Let's Make a Deal," are described, and Web sites for the activities are listed as well as sites for lesson plans. (LRW)

A method that enables people to obtain the benefits of statistics and probability theory without the shortcomings of conventional methods because it is free of mathematical formulas and is easy to understand and use is described. A resampling technique called the "bootstrap" is discussed in terms of application and development. (KR)

Presents suggestions for helping students learn about probability using coins and a simple spreadsheet. The article details how to brainstorm, gather the necessary data, prepare the spreadsheet, learn from the data, and extend the learning. (SM)

Presents noncalculus approximation techniques for two normal distribution problems. These methods may be useful projects for lower-level undergraduate statistics and computer science students. (PK)

The purpose of this teaching unit is to approach elementary probability problems in three ways. First, actual trials are performed and results are recorded. Second, a simple computer simulation of the problem provided on diskette and written for Apple IIe and IIc computers, is run several times. Finally, the mathematical solution of the problem is…

A technique for the numerical identification of bacteria using normalized likelihoods calculated from a probabilistic database is described, and the principles of the technique are explained. The listing of the computer program is included. Specimen results from the program, and examples of how they should be interpreted, are given. (KR)

Presents one model for a liberal arts mathematics course that combines probability and calculus. Describes activities utilized in the course to heighten students' interest and encourage student involvement. Activities include use of visualization, take-home tests, group problem solving, research papers, and computer usage with DERIVE computer…

Suggests a series of ratio activities that make use of a computer to produce graphical collections of objects in a grid with variable dimensions. Extends content to the areas of proportions, statistics, probability, programming, and problem solving. (PK)

Investigates the probability of winning the largest prize at Bingo through a series of five simpler problems. Investigations are conducted with the aid of either BASIC computer programs, spreadsheets, or a computer algebra system such as Mathematica. Provides sample data tables to illustrate findings. (MDH)

Describes the Microworld Chance, a simulation-oriented computer environment that allows students to explore probability concepts in five subenvironments: coins, dice, spinners, thumbtacks, and marbles. Results of a teaching experiment to examine the effectiveness of the microworld in changing students' misconceptions about probability are…

This document includes a statement of 11 basic considerations for a mathematics curriculum for the gifted in grades two through eight and a series of activities appropriate for such a curriculum. The activities are grouped under five strands: (1) logic; (2) combinations (combinatorics), probability, introduction to statistics; (3) geometry,…

Presented is an activity in which probability and percents are taught using a basketball computer simulation. Computer programs that replicate the free-throw accuracy of college and professional stars and allow students to compete with those stars are included. (KR)

Some specific uses of microcomputers in mathematics instruction are presented. Included are examples for generating data and patterns, checking, practice of various types, developing understanding, comparing results, simulation of experiments, introducing new ideas, solving problems, and extending into new areas. Brief computer programs are given.…

The materials described here represent the conversion of a highly popular student workbook "Sets, Probability and Statistics: The Mathematics of Life Insurance" into a computer program. The program is designed to familiarize students with the concepts of sets, probability, and statistics, and to provide practice using real life examples. It also…