The intent of this project was to develop a course for mathematics graduate students at Iowa State University. They would design and write computer programs for use by undergraduate mathematics students, and then offer the course and actually produce the software. Phase plane graphics for ordinary differential equations was selected as the topic.…

Reviews two science computer software packages (on time and seasons and on maps) and three mathematics packages (on solving equations and inequalities, an algebraic coordinate game, and statistics). In addition to descriptions of the contents of each, comments indicate weaknesses and strengths. (MNS)

An interactive, multimedia text for calculus instruction that contains the entire contents of a corresponding textbook is evaluated and found to have features that enhance concepts with dynamic examples of graphs and problems that make good use of animation, audio, and video. Its design accommodates diverse student abilities and educational…

This paper reviews empirical studies of the efficacy of the use of computer assisted instruction (CAI) in various settings, with particular attention to the use of CAI to teach mathematics skills and concepts. Studies using students at various ages and various subjects are considered, as are applications in which CAI was used as the primary…

A computer-assisted instructional (CAI) course in applied statistics has been taught for 15 years in the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba. The CAI courseware was originally created to be the primary mode of instruction for the course, and it is very extensive in terms of content and style of presentation. The course includes 14…

General guidelines for a process evaluation of software for a specific subject and grade include: (1) Specify instructional objectives and list desired software program characteristics; (2) Access and review descriptions of programs (information sources for math programs are listed); (3) Preview software; and (4) Compare and make purchase…

Describes development of a program instituted at Paisley College of Technology (Scotland) which used microcomputers in undergraduate mathematics instruction. Discussion of the software production phase of this program and project objectives includes descriptions of the program's microcomputer network and one computer program which was developed.…

Examines issues which emerged during the development of estimation materials produced by the Technology and Basic Skills-Mathematics (TABS) project. Special attention is given to the use of feedback in computer-based instruction on estimation. (JN)

Discusses several dynamic geometry constructions with rectangles. Advocates use of software like Geometer's Sketchpad and Cabri Geometry for fostering fresh insight into traditional geometric theorems. Illustrates problem-solving methods not possible with pencil and paper. (MTE)

Presents an application of the software tool DERIVE in the exploration and visualization of a relationship between logarithmic and exponential functions. (Author/MKR)

The question "What shape will have the largest area for a given perimeter?" identifies an important relationship between area and perimeter that has long been intuitively realized in many cultures. Historically, numerous cultures have made use of this relationship between area and perimeter when struggling to build dwellings with shapes…

Discusses the use of software created for practical, real-world applications to connect mathematics to other subjects and to the world outside the classroom. Software presented includes Design Your Own Home, Bridgebuilder, Physics Explorer, Aldus Superpaint, and Sprout. (MKR)

Provides an overview of a Vygotskian perspective for learning from hypermedia. Utilizes a Microsoft Dinosaurs teaching-learning episode to pose questions concerning the use of hypermedia for learning of mathematics and science. (Author/MKR)

The paper starts from classroom situations about the study of a functional relationship with help of technological tools as a "transposition" of experimental approaches from research mathematical practices. It considers the limitation of this transposition in existing curricula and practices based on the use of non-symbolic software like dynamic…

Presents author's view of how computer graphics produced in the classroom enhance mathematical concepts teaching. Specific concepts and related graphics presented include the convergence of power series and the Central Limit Theorem. Formal versus informal instruction, computer assisted instruction versus teaching, and requirements for future…