In this paper, the hypothesis that Developmental Dyscalculia (DD) is a characteristic of Down syndrome (DS) is proposed. Implications for the hypothesis are addressed: If it were to be confirmed that DS implies DD, what would be the consequences for the mathematics education of learners with DS? The use of prosthetic devices to overcome the…

Uses cryptography to demonstrate the importance of algebra and the use of technology as an effective real application of mathematics. Explains simple encoding and decoding of messages for student learning of modular arithmetic. This elementary encounter with cryptography along with its historical and modern background serves to motivate student…

Discusses the history of different methods of representing numbers and how these representations facilitated counting and computing devices such as the abacus. (MDH)

A program is presented which enables a programable calculator to become a device to check the arithmetic computational skills of students. (MP)

Describes a framework to help teachers decide when to use calculators with their students. (YDS)

A case is made against the major argument which implies that the use of a calculator for arithmetic problems that can be done by hand will prevent a student from being able to do arithmetic when the calculator is absent. (MN)

This response to Usiskin's editorial comment on calculator use in the May 1983 issue considers why arithmetic is taught. The belief that mathematics improves thinking and the humanist position that it is part of our cultural heritage are noted. The role of mathematics in the curriculum should be reconsidered. (MNS)

Ways to make a discussion of the commutative properties of addition and multiplication more interesting to students are reviewed. An alternative promoted is a transposition-of-digits property, seen as useful in a number of instructional situations. The proposed investigation could be structured around calculator use. (MP)

A study was conducted to: (1) observe through a case study approach the exploratory behavior exhibited by 8-year-old boys and girls when calculators were made available in problem-solving situations; (2) investigate changes that occur in the kinds of arithmetical problems children construct following the introduction of calculators; and (3)…

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of a fourth-grade arithmetic sequence based on calculator flow-charting with those of traditional textbook instruction. Both achievement and attitude were compared. Students were matched on the basis of intelligence (Otis Quick-Scoring Mental Ability Beta Test Form EM) and sex, and then randomly…

An attitude survey and arithmetic tests were given to samples of students in order to quantify the benefit obtained from their use of calculators. Results showed that the use of the calculators does improve students' arithmetic performance with the less able students showing about twice the improvement of the more able. (MN)

An elective course aimed at giving tenth-grade students some experience with practical arithmetic problems is outlined. The two-week course is designed primarily for students who will be leaving at the end of the year and includes topics such as calculators; earning, spending, and saving money; tax; and buying a car. (MN)

Explores how to use Gardner's Multiple Intelligence theory to help students' master multiplication. Focuses on helping children use their different intelligence strength to attain conceptual understanding of multiplication, develop their own thinking strategies for harder facts, and build mastery through practice and problem solving. (KHR)

Examines the idea that the arithmetic calculator can act as a cognitive tool, supporting the amplification or reorganization of systems of thought. Examples were found in which use of the calculator helped pupils work with unusual problem representations and adapt solution strategies in which they focused on planning and monitoring computations…