The importance of emotion in problem solving is well established. The Emotion Questionnaire, presented here, is a 38 item instrument designed to measure important aspects of emotion problem solving. The development and validation of the Emotion Questionnaire is discussed. Specific results gleaned in developing and validating this instrument are…

The development and validation of the Math Affect Trait Questionnaire (MATQ) for the investigation of affect during mathematical problem solving is presented. Anxiety, math interest, and self-esteem under problem solving conditions are the main constructs measured by the MATQ. The instrument validation process revealed that problem correctness…

This digest summarizes research findings on best teacher practices in mathematics education. Among the findings are: students can learn both concepts and skills by solving problems; whole-class discussion following individual and group work improves student achievement; and using calculators in the learning of mathematics can result in increased…

Based on a summary of research findings on best teacher practices in mathematics education, which is presented in Part 1, the companion to this digest, recommendations are given to improve mathematics teaching practices. Among the recommendations are: students can learn both concepts and skills by solving problems; whole-class discussion following…

Presents a problem in standing waves that provides an example of the mathematics used by theoretical physicists to generate predictions of new phenomena from fundamental background knowledge. Mathematical analysis required to solve problem is accomplished by simple graphical processes. (BR)

Discussed are the nature of a mathematical problem, problem solving in the traditional and modern mathematics programs, problem solving and psychology, research related to problem solving, and teaching problem solving in algebra and geometry. (CT)

Grade 7 student subjects, in a study of solving certain types of word problems found in elementary school mathematics materials, did not reread problems carefully, used only one of eight problem-solving heuristics, and did not check their answers, but were willing to persevere in the problem-solving process. (SB)

This article gives an overview of the new field of complexity theory which links computer science to mathematics, and ultimately to the solution of theoretical as well as practical problems in society and technology. (Author/MK)

The concept of proof is discussed from a "human" viewpoint. The author concludes that "a good proof is one which makes us wiser." (MP)

A review of the statement and history of the Four-Color theorem is followed by an explanation of Appel and Haken's solution of the problem with a computer-aided proof. This is seen as the first proof in mathematics that would not be done without a computer. (MP)

The final segment in a series of three articles presents specific strategies for systematically developing problem-solving experiences for learning disabled students in mathematical curricula. For the other two articles, see EC 114 635 and EC 113 270.

Two games and one activity designed to be used with a hand-held calculator are presented. (MK)