Presents a series of solution methods to the Eight Queens Problem of placing eight queens on a chess board so that no one queen can capture another. Solution methods progress from empirical approaches to the use of computer algorithms. Geometric transformations are used to find other solutions. (MDH)

This paper describes an approach to instruction and learning processes in professional training schools using microcomputers and computer assisted instruction (CAI). It is argued that the use of computers in education changes existing approaches to teaching and learning by focusing on the structure of the information being taught, the organization…

This issue contains abstracts and critical comments for 11 articles. Three articles focus on problem solving; the remainder concern understanding of the equals sign, mathematical structure, mathematical abilities, the role of language in tasks involving sets, sex differences in mathematical errors, subtraction, algorithms as schemes, and…

The concept of multiplication is described and illustrated using several different representational systems. A conceptual approach to teaching mathematics is compared with the procedural approach commonly found in the school curriculum. Four different methods of representing the multiplication process with numbers larger than ten are presented:…

The uses of programable calculators in the mathematics classroom are presented. A discussion of the "microelectronics revolution" that has brought programable calculators into our society is also included. Pointed out is that the logical or mental processes used to program the programable calculator are identical to those used to program…

The minicomputer-based Computerized Diagnostic and Decision Training (CDDT) system described combines the principles of artificial intelligence, decision theory, and adaptive computer assisted instruction for training in electronic troubleshooting. The system incorporates an adaptive computer program which learns the student's diagnostic and…

Discusses some of the difficulties involved with chemistry laboratory experiences and some laboratory manuals. Cites studies that indicate that part of the difficulty can be attributed to constraints relating to the short-term memory of the operational information and the assumption that students have a certain level of knowledge. (TW)

Describes the Approaching Algebra Numerically (AAN) Calculator as a computer-based simulation of a hand-held calculator designed with novice learners in mind. Includes a complete description of the calculator and suggests uses for the calculator, including exponentiation, order of operations, scientific notation, concept of variable, and problem…

Described is a study that used LOGO to improve the proportional reasoning ability of students enrolled in mathematics classes for students poorly prepared for college-level mathematics. Included are the methodology, procedures for using logo, and a discussion of the results. (KR)

The major perspectives on problem solving of the twentieth century are reviewed--associationism, Gestalt psychology, and cognitive science. The results of the review on teaching problem solving and the uses of computers to teach problem solving are included. Four major issues related to the teaching of problem solving are discussed: (1)…

This study compared the efficiency (time) and accuracy of two representations of instructional algorithms--list versus flow chart--for the task of using indexes to search for document numbers in the U.S. Documents Monthly Catalog. Participants were 55 undergraduates and 5 adults at the Virginia Military Institute. Two sets (flow charts and lists)…

Many of the suggestions that calculus instructors have published as articles from 1908 through 1973 are included in this book of readings. The main criterion for selecting an item was whether it would be helpful to teachers and students; therefore, those which dealt exclusively with curricular structure were not included. The selected articles are…

Discussion of instructional design models focuses on a study concerned with developing effective instruction in heuristic-based problem solving for computer programing. Highlights include distinctions between algorithms and heuristics; pretests and posttests; revised instructional design procedures; student attitudes; task analysis; and…

Compares performances of students on gas-law problems that require two distinct approaches, either the algorithmic technique or the conceptual gestalt. Indicates that student effectiveness is considerably different utilizing each approach and that training or experience with the algorithm process should not be expected to facilitate the…

Much valuable information can be gained by analyzing the students' wrong responses. When a student answers a free response item she/he gives the response which she/he considers to be the correct one. Therefore, diagnosing the algorithm that led the student to his/her answer provides an important source of information for assessing his/her…