Textbooks are one of the primary teaching tools frequently used in schools and most teachers use them in their classrooms (Sanchez and Valcarcel, 1999). Since there are a lot of abstract concepts in science education, images in science textbooks play a vital role in the learning process (Kenan et al., 2011). Concretization of abstract concepts may…

The article provides a review of recent research on human performance on the traveling salesman problem (TSP) and related combinatorial optimization problems. We discuss what combinatorial optimization problems are, why they are important, and why they may be of interest to cognitive scientists. We next describe the main characteristics of human…

Spatial representation and thinking have evolutionary importance for any mobile organism. In addition, they help reasoning in domains that are not obviously spatial, for example, through the use of graphs and diagrams. This article reviews the literature suggesting that mental spatial transformation abilities, while present in some precursory form…

This study examined the fractional graph area (FGA), the proportion of page space used to display statistical graphics, in 11 behavioral journals and places behavior analysis on a continuum with other natural, mathematical, and social science disciplines. The composite FGA of all 11 journals puts behavior analysis within the range of the social…

Discusses knowledge graphs, a new form of knowledge representation, and their possible uses in electronic study books. Topics addressed include graph structures; semantics; and representing knowledge from books, including browsing, information marking, annotations, group-based learning, information sequencing, information distribution, and…

Reviews recent research into the effectiveness of the graphing calculator as a tool for instruction and learning within precalculus and calculus, specifically in the study of functions, graphing, and modeling. Contends that much research fails to provide clear guidance or informed debate regarding the role of graphing calculators in mathematics…

Library user guides from seven large academic libraries were examined for readability using microcomputer software for analysis. Results indicated that most guides are written at or above a reading level of grade 12. Appendices summarize readability formulas and depict in a composite graph the levels of all of the guides examined. (16 references)…

Discusses the notion that knowledge grows exponentially and describes its growth mathematically by an exponential function. Growth patterns in subfields of knowledge or research areas are described citing related research. Interpretation of growth rate statistics and forecasts are included. Thirty-three references and statistics used for graphs…

One of the most remarkable devices embedded in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet is known as the spinner. Its staggering simplicity is undoubtedly its strength. As an incrementing device that allows graphs to dance across the screen, it gives the concept of variability a whole new meaning. Spinners and their close cousins scroll bars can be grabbed…

The current state of multidimensional scaling using the city-block metric is reviewed, with attention to (1) substantive and theoretical issues; (2) recent algorithmic developments and their implications for analysis; (3) isometries with other metrics; (4) links to graph-theoretic models; and (5) prospects for future development. (SLD)

The meta-analysis investigated the effects on achievement of type of graphing paper employed in displaying student performance data collected over time based on 15 controlled studies with 16 effect sizes. No significant differences in student achievement were found between studies using six-cycle and studies using equal interval paper graphing…

The "Condition of Education" is an annual statistical report about education in the United States. This review describes and comments on the publication's data selection data presentation, prose interpretation, and the quality of the statistics. Options for improving the publication are discussed. (BW)

Explores the state-of-the-art of Japanese information activities, detailing the comprehensive national plan Japan has developed. The volume of scientific and technological publications is discussed: monographs and technical reports briefly, and periodicals in more depth, including subject areas, language of publication, and accessibility to…

Highlights effective graphical methods for screening and cleaning data, exploring and identifying models, and displaying data in counseling-psychology publications. Argues that graphs are not ancillary to scientific publications but are essential and, in some cases, sufficient expositions of results. (Author/GCP)

Two packages in computer graphics are described that can represent three-dimensional surfaces in two dimensions. (MP)