Describes a simple hydraulic simulator based on more complex models long used by engineers to develop approximate solutions. It allows students to visualize non-steady transfer, to apply a model to solve a problem, and to compare experimentally simulated information with calculated values. (Author/MA)

Presents classroom vignettes in which middle grade students with developmentally different views of geometry stimulate each other's reasoning by externalizing mental images through modeling and discourse. (KHR)

A method for teaching problem-solving skills to mathematics students is presented. By subtly incorporating engineering applications, the students are simultaneously exposed to an effective outreach programme. The process includes offering a complex problem that challenges students' abilities. Before allowing the students to become frustrated, the…

A simple model for how traffic moves around a closed loop of road is introduced. The consequent analysis of the model can be used as an application of techniques taught at first year undergraduate level, and as a motivator to encourage students to think critically about model formulation and interpretation.

Views of mathematical modeling in empirical, expository, and curricular references typically capture a relationship between real-world phenomena and mathematical ideas from the perspective that competence in mathematical modeling is a clear goal of the mathematics curriculum. However, we work within a curricular context in which mathematical…

The authors recommend introducing complex numbers by first studying the integers modulo seven. (SD)

To measure the effectiveness of a set of instructional materials designed to aid college students in setting up mathematical models of physical situations, undergraduate liberal arts students taking physics were randomly assigned to an experimental group (receiving the materials and using a textbook), a control group (using the text only), or a…

The paper is an en route version of a technical report which will ultimately present a process model of transfer that will be usable in the design of instructional programs. Consequently, it is a progress report with respect to the formulation of that model. (LI 004 279 and 004 280 are related documents) (Author)

Describes a combination of lectures, experiments, and analysis with the aid of remote computer terminals that helps the engineering student grasp the fundamentals and implications of a mathematical model applied to a particular job situation. (MLH)

An analysis of methods of teaching children to solve verbal arithmetic problems is presented together with transcriptions of interviews in which children solve problems by reference to problem types. (SD)

Demonstrates that if a sinusoidal oscillation of the point of support of a pendulum is approximated by a square wave, a matrix method may be used to discuss parametric resonance and the stability of the inverted pendulum. (Author/SL)

A model for division of fractions using money as manipulative material is presented. Eight levels are described, ranging from the development of language and concept introduction through types of problems to rule discovery and application. (MNS)

A three-dimensional model made from pegboard, rods, and spheres can be used to illustrate principles of multi-variate analysis. (SD)

In this paper are described some features of the intensive use of math software, primarily Derive, in the context of modeling in an introductory university course in differential equations. Different aspects are detailed: changes in the curriculum that includes not only course contents, but also the sequence of introduction to various topics and…