Computer assisted instruction is presented as a tool for helping students learn to successfully solve word problems. Four stages of developing a curriculum for elementary school mathematics, grades three through six, are covered. (MP)

Provided are names and school districts of elementary and senior division winners of the third annual international problem-solving contest. Feedback from participants, contest recommendations, and information on the 1984 contest are included. (JN)

A facetious approach to programing a minicomputer is presented. (MK)

A discussion of differential equations is accompanied by an analysis of two situations whose solutions require differential equations. A computer program is given that will solve these equations. (MP)

Several specific areas of concern over the use of computers in education are addressed, including selection of programs; utilization; technology; expense; effects on the child, teaching, and society; and computer abuse. (MP)

This article gives an overview of the new field of complexity theory which links computer science to mathematics, and ultimately to the solution of theoretical as well as practical problems in society and technology. (Author/MK)

A traditional question is whether or not computers shall ever think like humans. This question is redirected to a discussion of whether computers shall ever be truly creative. Creativity is defined and a program is described that is designed to complete creatively a series problem in mathematics. (MP)

Answers to problems (in Applesoft Basic) in the Second Annual Computer Problem Solving Contest are presented, corresponding to elementary/junior/senior levels. Problems require good control of programing language, ability to solve problems, and implementing a problem-solving strategy within a computer language. Problem types include words,…

Evaluates 25 software packages (consisting of more than 40 individual programs), all aimed at one or another facet of mathematics learning. Title, source, current price, and detailed review (indicating the educational quality of the package) are included for each entry. (JN)

Four stages of problem solving are believed to occur in programing. Spirolaterals are discussed as specific examples of programing activity that have mathematical and programing interest. The BASIC programing language is used on the Apple II computer to provide examples of possible solutions to the problems posed. (MP)

A teaching strategy for problem solving with computers is detailed. The approach provides a "midline" level of help that encourages exploratory activity yet provides enough guidance to increase chances of pupil success. (MP)

Good computer simulations are those which make good use of the capability of the computer and which promote student decisions based on logic, observation, and their knowledge of the real world. (MP)

Discusses various attributes of and factors related to creative problem solving. These include sensitivity to problems, fluency, flexibility, originality, curiosity, feelings and the unconscious, motivation, freedom from fear of failure, persistence, and concentration. (JN)

Two kinds of secret writing, codes and ciphers, are discussed. The weakness of a ciphering system mentioned in the March 1981 issue is pointed out, and an alternate method is presented. Programs written in BASIC are presented which can be used to encipher messages and help break ciphers. (MP)

Five problems on the generation and study of prime and related numbers are discussed. Solutions to the problems posed will be in next month's presentation. (MP)