Discusses ways in which a mathematical pedagogy seminar can be an enlightening, engaging, and sometimes entertaining experience through which to bring together departmental colleagues and their students. Suggests logistics for such a seminar, 25 topics, and readings. Contains 64 references. (Author/ASK)

Provides evidence of differences in students' ability to solve problems with and without a computer algebra system. Indicates that almost without exception, the TI-92 students were more successful at symbolically solving problems than comparison students. Observes improved performance on all three levels of problems: (1) directive computational;…

The purpose of this study is to determine differences in mathematics self-efficacy between students enrolled in a developmental mathematics course and those enrolled in a calculus course. Data from a sample of 185 freshmen students at a single 4-year institution using the Mathematics Self-Efficacy Scale are analyzed. Results indicate that calculus…

This paper addresses the issue of collegiate mathematics achievement of underrepresented minority students as it investigates the impact of a cooperative learning calculus programme on the first-year calculus experience of non-Asian ethnic minority engineering students. The Emerging Ethnic Engineers Programme in the College of Engineering at the…

Games are promoted as examples for classroom discussion of stationary Markov chains. In a game context Markov chain terminology and results are made concrete, interesting, and entertaining. Game length for several-player games such as "Hi Ho! Cherry-O" and "Chutes and Ladders" is investigated and new, simple formulas are given. Slight…

As part of a first-year college Introductory Physics course, I have students construct an Excel[R]: spreadsheet based on the differential equation for pendulum motion (we take a pendulum having a light bar rather than a string, so it can go "over the top"). In extensive discussions with the students, I find that forcing them to make the…

A calculus-free approach is offered for determining the equation of lines tangent to conics. Four types of problems are discussed: line tangent to a conic at a given point, line tangent to a conic passing through a given point outside the conic, line of a given slope tangent to a conic, and line tangent to two conics simultaneously; in each case,…

The tedium that characterizes many routine calculus activities necessary for average students often results in the loss of the most talented to the field of mathematics. One way to overburden teacher to nurture mathematical talent within a typical calculus class is to encourage student research. This article illustrates how student research…

An aspect of the long history of the struggle to quantify motion is briefly traced through three extended problem sets suitable for use in first year calculus courses. The sketch culminates with an application of simple mathematics to one of the most current problems in the theory of the universe. (Contains 2 figures.)

A calculus-based introductory physics course, which is based on the Matter and Interactions curriculum of Chabay and Sherwood (2002), has been taught at Purdue University. Characteristic of this course is its emphasis on modeling. Therefore, I would like to investigate the effects of modeling-based instruction and interactive engagement on…

This study focuses on the long-term retention of basic mathematical techniques in a first-year calculus course, involving a sample group of engineering students at the University of Pretoria. The study investigates which and how much of the basic mathematical knowledge and rote skills acquired in the first year of study is retained after a further…

The author illustrates a test-preparation method that involves boardwork by each student in working out practice tests. (MN)

This discussion uses a more difficult reaction as the prototype to derive the standard equation for chemical equilibrium. It can be used by students who can understand and use partial derivatives. (CW)

The integration of History in the educational practice can lead to the development of a series of activities exploiting genetic "moments" of the history of Mathematics. Utilizing genetic ideas that developed during the 14th century (Merton College, N. Oresme), activities are developed and mathematical models for solving problems related to uniform…

Develops covariational reasoning and proposes a framework for describing mental actions when interpreting and representing dynamic function events. Investigates calculus students' ability to reason about covarying quantities in dynamic situations. Suggests that curriculum and instruction should emphasize moving students to a coordinated image of…