Presents a study in which a group of 25 undergraduate students was given seven whole- or decimal-number estimations and asked to determine the exact answer using a calculator programmed to give incorrect answers. Points out subjects' lack of confidence in their estimation skills as well as a reluctance to question calculator-produced results.…

The importance of teaching computational estimation is discussed, with note of its increased significance because of widespread use of calculators and the need to develop number sense. The reason for its failure to be taught is traced to the multiplicity of methods, and some detailed suggestions are therefore presented. (MNS)

Included are several general principles pertaining to the uses, applications, and accuracy of significant digits when mathematical computations are performed with calculators. Examples are provided that illustrate how misunderstandings can arise from the misapplication of these principles. (JJK)

Three worksheets are given that use calculators to free students from computational restrictions and allow them to focus on the recognition of patterns and the application of numeration concepts in the development of their estimation skills. (MNS)

One method (attributed to Archimedes) of approximating pi offers a simple yet interesting introduction to one of the basic ideas of numerical analysis, an iteration sequence. The method is described and elaborated. (PK)

Presents activities utilized with primary teachers to alleviate instructional concerns about using calculators and provide reasons for using calculators in their mathematics instruction. Activities address the topics of estimation, number sense, numeration, whole number and fraction operations, probability, and problem solving. (MDH)

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)

Four worksheets designed to be used with calculators are presented. For levels 1-2, counting is the focus; levels 3-4, estimation; levels 5-6, use of memory keys; and for levels 7-8, patterns. (MNS)

This package contains student and teacher handbooks and a report summarizing a project during which the handbooks were developed as part of a numeracy education course for adult basic and literacy education students. Discussed in the project report are the following: development of the course's 7 numeracy education units, field testing of the…

A collection of articles from the journals "Arithmetic Teacher" and "Teaching Children Mathematics" provide ideas for the instruction and use of teacher-made instructional aids. Guidelines used to select articles for this collection called for the articles to have a clear purpose and be related to a contemporary topic in the elementary school…

In 1990, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) included a Trial State Assessment which, for the first time in the NAEP's history, made voluntary state-by-state assessments. This 1992 mathematics report marks the first attempt of the National Center for Education Statistics to shift to standards-based reporting of National…

In 1990, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) included a Trial State Assessment which, for the first time in the NAEP's history, made voluntary state-by-state assessments. This 1992 mathematics report marks the first attempt of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to shift to standards-based reporting of National…

In 1990, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) included a Trial State Assessment which, for the first time in the NAEP's history, made voluntary state-by-state assessments. This 1992 mathematics report marks the first attempt of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to shift to standards-based reporting of National…

In 1990, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) included a Trial State Assessment which, for the first time in the NAEP's history, made voluntary state-by-state assessments. This 1992 mathematics report marks the first attempt of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to shift to standards-based reporting of National…

In 1990, the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) included a Trial State Assessment which, for the first time in the NAEP's history, made voluntary state-by-state assessments. This 1992 mathematics report marks the first attempt of the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) to shift to standards-based reporting of National…