Begins with a definition of mental computation and then provides an overview of its evolution during the twentieth century. Significant benefits from teaching mental computation are highlighted, along with a framework and guidelines for instructing elementary school students. A parallel discussion is also provided for computational estimation. (RH)

This book, written by participants of a joint Japan-United States seminar, drawing upon years of classroom and research experience, examines how computation applies in basic and far-reaching ways, starting in early childhood and continuing throughout individuals' lives. The book presents both the Japanese and American views of computational…

A range of estimation techniques are described, and a series of mental computation procedures based on concepts of measurement and real numbers are presented in detail. (MP)

Presents a modified version of the Wheel of Fortune game for mathematics classrooms that engages students in solving equations by using formal and informal methods. Encourages mental computation and estimation. (ASK)

Research on computational estimation and mental computation has received a considerable amount of attention from mathematics educators during the past decade. These proceedings resulted from a meeting to explore dimensions of number sense and its related fields. The participants came from three groups: mathematics educators actively pursuing…

Tests of computational estimation ability (CEA), strategy (CES), and mental computation ability (MCA) of (n=124) fourth, (n=143) fifth, and (n=84) sixth graders found significant relationships between CEA and MCA and between CEA and CES but not between MCA and CES. (12 references) (Author/MKR)

This yearbook responds to the growing recognition among mathematics educators of the importance of teaching and learning estimation. It makes a strong case for the importance of estimation in such domains as numerosity, computation, and measurement. An important theme is the interdependency between the process of estimating in a particular domain…

The need to include proficiency with estimation and mental arithmetic as goals for the study of computation is presented. Approaches and guidelines are described for developing these skills.

The author suggests that the efficient use of mathematics in everyday life means translating situations into mathematical contexts, using a calculator and mental methods of calculation. Suggestions for teaching these concepts are included. (PK)

Derived simplified equations to compute the standard error of the frequency estimation method for equating score distributions that are continuized using a uniform or Gaussian kernel function. Results from two empirical studies indicate that these equations work reasonably well for moderate size samples. (SLD)

Traditional methods of teaching addition include algorithms that involve right-to-left procedures. This article describes efficient procedures for left-to-right addition and subtraction involving computation and computational estimation that reflect children's natural behaviors observed during activities with unifix cubes. (MDH)

A general model for two-level multivariate data, with responses possibly missing at random, is described. The model combines regressions on fixed explanatory variables with structured residual covariance matrices. The likelihood function is reduced to a form enabling computational methods for estimating the model to be devised. (Author)

Describes the method to solve problems called T-E-M-T-T: trial, error, and modified trial through technology. The method integrates students' skills of estimation, mental computation, and appropriate choice of calculator use. Includes 2 activities for each of grades K-4 and 5-8 that illustrate the method. (MDH)

Presents five activities focusing on mental computation and estimation for the K-3, 3-5, 4-6, and 6-8 grade levels that require the student, acting as a judge, to review solutions to problems and to pronounce and justify a verdict. Provides suggested materials, questions, possible extensions, answers, and worksheets for each activity. (MDH)

It is shown that Bayesian algorithms are computationally simpler in frequency formats than in the probability formats used in previous research. Analysis of several thousand solutions to Bayesian problems showed that when information was presented in frequency formats, statistically naive participants derived up to 50% of inferences by Bayesian…