Discusses a concept-oriented calculus course as an alternative to a traditional skill-oriented calculus course. Two main ideas of conceptual calculus are visual conceptualization and receptive argumentation. Includes typical examination questions. (14 references) (MKR)

A rational model of human categorization behavior is presented that assumes that categorization reflects the derivation of optimal estimates of the probability of unseen features of objects. A case is made that categorization behavior can be predicted from the structure of the environment. (SLD)

Reports results of two studies using physics materials to determine the parameters of pictorial analogies in combination with expository text. Shows that pictorial analogies can improve learning significantly if they are designed properly and used together with the text. Concludes that the analogies should have high structural similarity between…

Discusses and examines two approaches to concept-based retrieval of hypermedia information that improve a user's ability to navigate large systems--term indexing with semantically coupled thesauri and semantic hyperindexing. Visualization of index structures is discussed, and an example, the Cube of Contents retrieval model for the "Active…

The study, with 15 language-learning-disabled and 15 normally achieving children (ages 6-8), found a significant positive correlation between the severity of the language disability and accuracy on 2 of 3 imagery tasks. Performance on one imagery task was significantly related to reading achievement, and imagery ability was related more strongly…

Argues for a mathematics education that interprets the word "theorem" in a sense that is wide enough to include the visual aspects of mathematical intuition and reasoning. Defines the term "visual theorems" and illustrates the concept using the Marigold of Theodorus. (Author/MDH)

Presents a tested hypothesis raised by an earlier study and confirmed that query-surrogate documents chosen from within dense interdocument structures in scaled and visualized TREC Topic document data sets increased the number of relevant documents retrieved by 26-46%. Performance of information retrieval systems on data sets for which relevant…

Describes a low-cost activity designed to help students visualize both the kinetic and the stoichiometric nature of chemical reactions at the particle level, by creating a flip book. Suggests ideas for evaluation of student work, and extension activities. (WRM)

Argues that mental timelines for learning history are analogous to mental mapping for learning geography: both visually represent abstract concepts. Describes the construction of a classroom timeline and activities for fifth- and sixth-grade students that incorporate the use of timelines. Notes reasonable expectations for student progress at this…

Considers cognitive development in mathematics and its relationship to computer technology with special emphasis on the use of visual imagery and symbols and the later shift to formal axiomatic theories. Presents empirical evidence to show how these forms of thinking are enhanced, changed, or impeded by the use of technology. (Contains 36…

Considers five ways to overcome barriers teachers face when they attempt to create thinking classrooms: (1) acquisition of conscious commitment; (2) legitimization of students' experiences; (3) integration of visualizing into the curriculum; (4) use of reflective analysis; and (5) diversification of perspectives. (SR)

Addresses three issues of Calculator-based Ranger (CBR) activities on graphing abilities: (a) the effect of CBR activities on graphing abilities; (b) the extent to which prior knowledge about graphing skills affects graphing ability; and (c) the influence of instructional styles on students' graphing abilities. Indicates that CBR activities are…

Discusses information visualization and cocitation analysis and demonstrates the use of an integrative approach to visualizing and tracking the development of competing scientific paradigms. Assumes that a cluster of highly cited and cocited scientific publications in a cocitation network represents the core of a predominant scientific paradigm.…

Answers several questions regarding background information on research in spatial skills. Describes strategies that graphics educators can adopt to develop these skills in students. (Author/CCM)

Provides opportunities for children to develop visual images of the number situations they are exploring in order to develop powerful number sense. Illustrates two visual teaching aids to help young children develop number images. (ASK)