The thought processes of 507 elementary, secondary, and university students engaged in problem-solving situations are examined in this study. Results indicated that pupils who got correct answers often showed incorrect reasoning justifications. No significant sex differences were indicated. (MP)

Sources for everyday problems are suggested and examples from newspapers are given. Also included are a sample role-playing situation and six other suggested activities. (MK)

The role of the computer in coordinating the activities surrounding five modes of mathematics instruction is discussed. The modes are: computer-assisted instruction, computer-managed instruction, computer-based simulations, algorithmic exercise solving, and computer-aided problem solving. (MP)

Reviews the nature and application of the skills of reading and writing as they pertain to the learning of mathematics. Argues that students must learn to read mathematically. Contains 22 references. (DDR)

A Maryland middle-school teacher can no longer imagine a math classroom without computers, word processing programs, graphing calculators, graphic design programs, and colored printers and monitors. Aided by these devices, her students made great leaps toward the 21st-century technology goals spelled out by the Department of Education in 1995.…

Describes six key practices vital to a problem-centered instructional approach to number sense and computational strategies. Also presents actual classroom examples of strategies. (AIM)

This study compared two teachers' levels of implementation of the DISCOVER approach to gifted education and the resulting effects on number of students identified as gifted and on problem-solving behaviors. Significant relationships were found between level of implementation and positive changes in mathematics problem solving and numbers of…

Examined relations between algebraic word-problem attributes and students' strategies, errors, and problem difficulty. Found that constructed responses capture strategy formulation and high-level planning--as do traditional measures of quantitative reasoning--but are more sensitive to individual problem characteristics and procedural errors that…

Investigates gender-related effects of a problem-solving plan for sixth graders (n=155). Analysis indicates a significant interaction effect of occasion of testing, test sequence, and gender. Concludes that females benefited from free exploration, of problem situations followed by an organized exploration whereas males appeared to function equally…

Presents examples of problem tasks that promote communication and develop or reinforce important mathematical concepts. Problems that have multiple solutions or methods of solution are best in stimulating discussion, creativity, and risk taking. Examples were chosen from TOPS: Communication Deck Grades 1 and 2 (Greenes, Schulman, and Spungin;…

Describes a multicultural and multidisciplinary classroom activity involving the mathematics of flags. Activities are related to geometry and spatial sense, linear and area measurement, fractions, and basic arithmetic. Venn diagrams are introduced as a way to organize information to simplify understanding. This experience supports whole-language…

Describes a study that explores the perceptions that children (N=36) have about what it means to engage in mathematics. The study, which took place in reform-minded classrooms, concludes that children have a variety of perceptions and most do not feel that success is determined by speed and accuracy. Contains 20 references. (DDR)

Describes a study that investigated probabilistic intuitions held by students (N=98) from grade 7 through college through the use of a questionnaire. Of the misconceptions that were investigated, availability was the only one that was stable across age groups. Contains 20 references. (DDR)

Investigates the thinking process underlying students' improper linear reasoning and how this process is affected by their mathematical conceptions, beliefs, and habits. Explores the actual process of problem solving from students falling into the linearity trap and the mechanism behind it. Discusses specific mathematical conceptions, habits, and…

Reports findings from the team teaching of a course in mathematical problem solving designed for secondary and community college teachers to clarify the concept of ."ecessary and sufficient" conditions. Discusses assigned problems and students' incorrect interpretations. Student interpretations showed how simple mistakes can often lead to rich…