How laser videodisc technology can be used to improve mathematics instruction is described, with note of the development of a videodisc curriculum on mastering fractions. Relevant research is reviewed, as well as how teachers can use the technology. The instructional design is described, and field-testing and revision reported. (MNS)

Proposes elements of a model of knowledge structures used in comprehending and generating graphs. Uses the competence model to attempt to organize and interpret findings on misconceptions in graphing. Discusses two types of common misconceptions; treating the graph as a picture and slope-height confusions. (YP)

Describes a study which concluded that, to restructure the mathematics curriculum, modification of existing teaching practices is required. Recommends that practices be modified to enable students to construct effective knowledge bases and become active learners. Contains 38 references. (DDR)

Examines the relationship between visualization and the middle school mathematics curriculum. Gives an overview of where and how visualization interacts with the curriculum. Investigates the role of visualization in developing inductive/deductive and proportional reasoning. (YP)

Investigated are three misconceptions of probability and the differential effect of two activity-based instructional units. Response categories (law of averages, law of small numbers, and availability) are identified. Treatment differences (evaluation or no evaluation) appear to influence subjects' interpretations of the information. (YP)

Ways in which children think of 10 are considered first. Then a study with 14 second graders is reported; students were placed at three levels with respect to their addition and subtraction concepts. Findings are detailed, along with implications for instruction. (MNS)

Describes a study designed to investigate the relationship between students' learning of the standard double-digit addition algorithm and basic fact mastery or numeration concepts. Results suggest basic fact mastery and knowledge of numeration concepts may not be as necessary as previously assumed to learning multidigit addition. (PK)

Reports on a study designed to document that learning-disabled (LD) students make errors in estimating the passage of short time durations, and to determine if LD students were different than nondisabled in time estimation. Non-LD and LD students differed significantly in estimations of 15-second intervals, but not 3-second intervals. (PK)

Examines selected first-grade mathematics textbooks used in Japanese and American schools. Focus points of analysis include size and volume, repetition, length of explanations, mathematics content, gender issues, and the relevance of the pictures to the mathematics content. Contains 16 references. (DDR)

Research on learner's beliefs are summarized in the areas of beliefs about mathematics as a discipline, beliefs about learning mathematics, beliefs about mathematics teaching, and beliefs about self within a social context in which mathematics teaching and learning are occurring. (PK)

This study surveyed 91 special education teachers to determine perceived mathematical needs of exceptional children, ways teachers assess skill deficits, and teachers' methods and backgrounds. The continuum of skills corresponded to the standard curriculum. (MNS)

Describes the typical eighth-grade geometry curriculum (with regard to teacher emphasis on content, time allocations, instructional methodologies, the use of manipulatives, and compared to current research models) of typical (n=109) and enriched (n=23) mathematics classrooms in the United States based on data from the IEA Second International…

The study investigated which addition facts children and preservice teachers view as being difficult, whether it is possible to determine facts which are difficult for all children, and whether children and adults agree on which facts are difficult. Results indicated that children and adults disagree about the difficulty of facts. (PK)

Presents the major findings identified by a commission that examined research issues in diagnostic and prescriptive mathematics. Addresses the diagnostic process with regard to curriculum, instruction, learners, teacher education, clinics, and the mathematics education community. (TW)

Described are inconsistencies, definitions, and examples and their complex relationship which can be used to interpret students' reactions to the geometric tasks used to investigate inconsistencies in student thinking. Discusses the nature of definitions, the value of precise vocabulary, the use and limitations of prototypes, and the power of…