Research advocating classroom use of the computer programming language LOGO is based on relatively long periods of instruction, plentiful provision of computers, and knowledgeable teachers. Recent research shows that LOGO may confuse children's understanding of angles. Considers implications for Scottish primary schools using LOGO as recommended…

School mathematics curriculum worldwide has failed to bridge the gap between school mathematics and out-of-school problem-solving activities. Presented is the need for a mathematics curriculum unifying the civil, academic, bureaucratic, and school social domains to prepare students as functional citizens. (MDH)

Two groups of adolescents (n=36) with learning difficulties in mathematics were taught problem-solving skills under two conditions: standard word problems or contextualized problems on videodisc. Both groups improved their performance, but students in the contextualized problem group did significantly better on the contextualized problem posttest…

Describes the guess-and-check method and discusses the advantages of using computers to apply the methods to solve mathematics problems. Provides two examples that use BASIC programs to illustrate the method. (MDH)

Described is research which sought to prove the hypothesis that mental models tend to preserve their autonomy with regard to the originals they are meant to represent. The results of this investigation involving 200 Israeli students are presented. (CW)

Examined the differential effects of two instructional strategies (explicit schema-based and traditional-based) on the acquisition, maintenance, and generalization of mathematical word problem solving among elementary students at risk or with mild disabilities. Pretesting and posttesting indicated that both groups' performance increased from…

Discusses two approaches to solving word problems that consider the verbal text of the problem, and analyze it to obtain its mathematical expression, as well as its numerical solution. Uses two computerized programs for word problems to capture the various strategies employed by the problem solvers. Contains 21 references. (Author/ASK)

This article describes "Solve It!," a research-based instructional program for middle school students who have difficulty with mathematical word problems. It describes the theoretical framework of the program, reviews research on the program, presents an overview of the program, and discusses implementation issues such as finding time for…

Describes a study that investigated the effects of computer-assisted videodisc-based anchored instruction on attitudes toward mathematics and instruction as well as problem-solving skills among Taiwanese elementary students. Findings suggest that video-based anchored instruction provided a more motivating environment that enhanced students'…

A discussion of how to use math manipulatives to teach elementary students focuses on essential program elements: what math manipulatives are and why they are used, common questions about math manipulatives, how one teacher introduced the geoboard into the classroom, and pattern block activities. (SM)

Discusses approaches to teaching mathematical problem solving in the context of number, including encouraging children to write number stories to consolidate their conceptual understanding and technical competence. The use of computers to explore mathematical concepts is discussed, and examples of how number squares can be used are provided. (CR)

Presents a research project on the development of pre-service teachers' skills and understanding of themselves as pedagogical problem solvers. Argues that by adopting a problem-solving approach to teaching, teachers would be better able to view themselves as competent problem solvers who are able to develop various strategies to deal with change.…

This study identified cognitive processes that underlie individual differences in working memory (WM) and mathematical problem-solution accuracy in elementary school children at risk and not at risk for serious math difficulties (SMD). A battery of tests was administered that assessed problem solving, achievement, and cognitive processing in…

This article describes geometry-oriented problem-solving tasks that can encourage students to develop a positive attitude toward mathematics. The tasks concern working with polyominoes, two-dimensional shapes that consist of squares joined fully at the edges. (Contains 7 figures.)

This article describes the use of commercial games in mathematics to help teach algebraic reasoning, spatial sense, and multistep problem solving. It also provides a description of how one teacher implemented the use of games.