Calls for the use of the zoom feature of graphing calculators to help students better understand the concept of derivatives. (MKR)

Described are various ways that a computer algebra system (MAPLE) was used to facilitate the resequencing of skills and applications within an elementary college-level business calculus course. Experimental results confirmed earlier findings that skills acquisition is not a prerequisite to conceptual understanding or problem-solving ability. (JJK)

Describes the problem-solving behaviors of six novice subjects attempting to solve an electrostatics problem in calculus-based college physics. The level of qualitative thinking exhibited by these novices was determined. Sound procedural knowledge and problem representation were suggested as an integral part of skilled problem solving in physics.…

Following a short history of calculus reform efforts, this article discusses curriculum development and research on student learning with respect to the concepts of function, limits and continuity, the derivative, and the integral; the availability and influence of new technologies on curriculum development; the consideration of the role of the…

Describes an activity, bungee jumping, that is fun and effective in illustrating energy transformation. The activity incorporates biology, physics, and calculus into one unit. (ZWH)

Under the assumption that the current perplexing state of calculus instruction is a result of the presuppositions inherent within conventional teaching practices, the author examines why calculus is taught the way it is, indicates unprofitable practices that result from the way calculus is taught, and recommends possible ameliorative actions. (JJK)

Reports the results of students' performance as measured by grades after the completion of the first three-quarters of calculus using the materials of the Calculus Consortium based at Harvard University. The results are presented in graphical form. The improvement is dramatic for the weaker students and moderate or none for the better students.…

Using a physical picture, an expression for the maximum possible transverse velocity and orientation required for that by a linear emitter in special theory of relativity has been derived. A differential calculus method is also used to derive the expression. (Author/KR)

Presented are five short articles which describe innovations in mathematics teaching. Included are "Polar Summation,""The Age of the Solar System,""Forward Homework--A Motivational Tool,""Trigonometric Identities through Calculus," and "Algorithms for Evaluation of Polynomials." (CW)

Discusses two teaching ideas: (1) copying and distributing anonymous student mathematics homework to the class to increase student responsibility and their ability to communicate and read mathematics, and (2) using maximum/minimum applications of calculus to investigate the most economical dimensions for manufactured metal cans. (MKR)

Provides an overview of an ongoing calculus reform that includes cooperative learning, oral presentations, and long-term student projects. (Author/ASK)

Compares student achievement based upon which calculus program--traditional calculus, Harvard Consortium Calculus, or Calculus Using Mathematica--the student completed. Finds some differences when students took different types of calculus during subsequent terms. Justifies teaching reformed calculus in place of traditional calculus. (Author/ASK)

Describes a scheme for testing and assisting students with the mathematical skills essential for math courses. Discusses the aims and philosophy of the scheme and describes the logistics of running such a scheme. Reviews student performance and discusses those skills that students are strong in or have difficulty mastering. (Author/ASK)

Presents a study on calculus reform that examines how instructional approaches that place different emphases on the use of technology and multiple representations impact undergraduate calculus students' ability to use and understand connections between different representations of concepts. Compares three courses--traditional calculus, calculus…

The approximation of functions such as the sine, cosine, and exponential by polynomials is significant and interesting enough for students to learn about. Presents Maclaurin's theorem, examples employing the theorem, and applications of the theorem. (ASK)