Presents the underlying ideas of the Software Cost Reduction (SCR) approach to requirements specifications. Results of applying this approach to the teaching of programing to high school students indicate that students perform better in writing programs. An appendix provides two examples of how the method is applied to problem solving. (MDH)

This article describes a way in which the computer can be used by students in exploring patterns and solving problems associated with number theory. BASIC programs are described, along with classroom questions and procedures that aid in implementation. (Author/KR)

This reinforcement activity has been used by students from the elementary school level to the graduate school level who possess intermediate level ability in programming Logo. The activity, which consists of writing Logo programs that animate an object, can have several positive effects as it: (1) helps develop problem-solving skills; (2)…

This paper provides guidelines and programming commands for using LogoWriter activity cards in game-writing as a way to develop student programming skills. Suggestions are made for the specific activity cards to use, and solutions are provided for some of the problems that were most frequently encountered by the author's students as they worked on…

As a demonstration of the application of heuristic devices to decision-theoretical techniques, an interactive computer program known as MAUD (Multiattribute Utility Decomposition) has been designed to support decision or choice problems that can be decomposed into component factors, or to act as a tool for investigating the microstructure of a…

Discusses ways to simulate a probability problem of interest to middle school students in which students calculate the average number of packets of trading cards purchased to obtain a complete set of cards. Simulations utilize a spinner, a table of random numbers, and a computer. Includes the BASIC program utilized in the simulation. (MDH)

Described are activities in the study of techniques used to conceal the meanings of messages and data. Some background information and two BASIC programs that illustrate the algorithms used in a new cryptographic system called "public-key cryptography" are included. (CW)

Discusses a misconception about the cycloid that asserts the final point on the path of shortest time in the "Brachistochrone" problem is at the lowest point on the cycloid. Uses a BASIC program for Newton's method to determine the correct least-time cycloid. (MDH)

Provides examples of such statistical graphs as line, bar, picture and pie. Suggests uses of Logo Turtle Graphics in graph construction. Includes several program procedures for creating designs with the computer. (RT)

Investigates the mathematical behavior of 30 college students in a problem situation that requires them to find the inverse of a given compound element in an environment of LOGO turtle graphics. Results from interviews indicate that, in searching for the inverse, students tend to invert the elements but not the order. (MDH)

Described is a strategy that allows students to experiment with probability without applying formulas to solve problems. Students are able to intuitively develop concepts of probability before formal definitions and properties. Sample problems are included along with BASIC programs for some of the problems. (KR)

Discusses a problem involving probability and uncertainty that students can investigate experimentally or theoretically and transforms the problem to a two-player game so that students can be introduced to some fundamental concepts of decision making. Includes computer programs used to analyze the problems. (MKR)

Reports on how experts in special education approach the problem of software selection. Offers guidance in examining if the software is modifiable and if it offers record-keeping options. Also contains a listing of sample programs that are suitable for special education students in language arts, mathematics, and problem solving. (ML)

Describes laboratory-oriented software programs that are short, time-saving, eliminate computational errors, and not found in public domain courseware. Program availability for IBM and Apple microcomputers is included. (RT)

Over the past 10 years, national conferences and committees investigating the state of American mathematics education have advocated an increased emphasis on problem solving and mathematical modeling situations in the secondary school curriculum. However, little effort has been made to prepare secondary school teachers to use mathematical modeling…