Until recently, norms of experimental reasoning have lacked systematic theoretical development. Thus, it has been easy for psychologists like Tversky and Kahneman to misclassify certain human reasoning processes as being Pascalian and invalid, rather than as being Baconian and valid. (CP)

Some activities designed around the Monte Carlo method of solving probability problems are described. The instructional applications of this method involve physical models or simple BASIC computer programs. (MP)

Several BASIC computer programs designed to illustrate concepts in probability are presented. The programs are geared for the Apple II computer, but most samples are adaptable to other systems. (MP)

Four learning activities designed to teach some basic concepts of probability through experiential learning are presented. Worksheets designed for duplication are included. Two of the ideas are geared towards grades 1 through 5; the others are designed for grades 4 through 8. (MP)

Macready and Dayton introduced two probabilistic models for mastery assessment based on an idealistic all-or-none conception of mastery. Alternatively, an application of latent trait theory to mastery testing is proposed (a three parameter logistic model) as a more plausible model for test theory. (Author/CTM)

Provides details of a course that introduces chemical engineering students to a variety of spreadsheet applications. The course is taken concurrently with stoichiometry and introduces statistical analysis, probability, reliability, and quality control. (DDR)

Presents a framework for assessing probabilistic thinking based on validated data obtained from eight third grade children who served as case studies. Major constructs were sample space, probability of an event, probability comparisons, and conditional probability. Levels of thinking appear to agree with the levels of cognitive functioning…

Describes how probability is treated in the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' (NCTM) "Principles and Standards of School Mathematics". (YDS)

The Core-Plus Mathematics Project (CPMP) is a four-year program emphasizing mathematical modeling, featuring full use of graphing calculators, building on the theme of mathematics as sense-making, and involving investigations of real-life contexts that lead to reinventing important mathematics. (MKR)

Presents examples to illustrate how conditional probability statements can be used to introduce conditional probabilities, how early applications can be found in sports data, and how conditional probability can be related to data collection and presentation in two-way tables. (MKR)

Uses probability models in problem-solving activities based on an episode of the television show "Gunsmoke." (MKR)

Describes the Belief Function Model for automatic indexing and ranking of documents which is based on a controlled vocabulary and on term frequencies in each document. Belief Function Theory is explained, and the Belief Function Model is compared to the Standard Vector Space Model. (17 references) (LRW)

Administration of the Conflict Tactics Scales to 1,997 mothers found that risk factors included the mother's age at time of birth of the abused child, size of family, and minority group status. However, there was not a significant relationship when mother's age was measured at time of abuse. (Author/JDD)

Describes a study to determine middle school children's representational strategies to form part-whole or part-part relationships for relational numbers such as proportions, ratios, or fractions. Quantitative and qualitative analysis revealed that children prefer a part-part representation to solve relational quantity problems. (15 references)…

Described is a strategy that allows students to experiment with probability without applying formulas to solve problems. Students are able to intuitively develop concepts of probability before formal definitions and properties. Sample problems are included along with BASIC programs for some of the problems. (KR)