The author argues the necessity of ensuring that mathematics is perceived by children as being useful. An example is provided which is intended to give children experiences which might help them develop a rationale for learning. It involves an item of computer software which simulates car racing. (PK)

This paper is concerned with the issues surrounding the mathematical education of traditionally oriented Aboriginal children. A wide-ranging review of the relevant literature is presented and discussed with a view to developing more effective educational procedures. The discussion is intended to be relevant to other culture-conflict educational…

Describes a mathematics course for 15- or 16-year-olds who lack confidence in themselves and their ability to succeed. The article presents a "picture" of how a small group of teachers have tried to apply some of the "new" methodologies and assessment techniques in the classroom. (PK)

This discussion paper stresses the validity and usefulness of a full range of assessment practices as an integral part of the learning and teaching of mathematics. (PK)

The constructivist perspective, which holds that children's learning of subject matter is an interaction between what they are taught and what they bring to a learning situation, could be used to improve mathematics teacher education. (PK)

One of the areas in which the microcomputer excels is that of the very rapid addition of a sequence of numbers. Many problems in mathematics can be reduced to such an addition. Examples of problems and computer programs are included. (PK)

Presents the major findings identified by a commission that examined research issues in diagnostic and prescriptive mathematics. Addresses the diagnostic process with regard to curriculum, instruction, learners, teacher education, clinics, and the mathematics education community. (TW)

Describes the Approaching Algebra Numerically (AAN) Calculator as a computer-based simulation of a hand-held calculator designed with novice learners in mind. Includes a complete description of the calculator and suggests uses for the calculator, including exponentiation, order of operations, scientific notation, concept of variable, and problem…

Techniques for estimating pi using the microcomputer are demonstrated. Four BASIC programs, coded from pi generating formulas, are compared for efficiency. (PK)

Includes patterns for and a brief discussion of the polyhedra: octahedron, tetrahedron, dodecahedron, cuboid, prism, and star. (PK)

Discusses whether or not the teaching of mathematics in schools makes assumptions about culture. (PK)

Reviews of the courseware "Discovery! Experiences with Scientific Reasoning" and "Guess My Rule" are given. Discusses the accompanying manuals, the relative ease of use, and content of the programs. (PK)

Several lines of needed research on teaching are discussed, including process-outcome research, structuring the content for clarity, teaching cognitive skills and problem-solving strategies, recitation and boardwork, seatwork and homework, conceptual change teaching, classroom organization and grouping, cooperative learning methods, sex equity,…

In Australia, schools may choose to spend their annual allocation for mathematics and social studies materials on commercially produced materials or materials produced by the Education Department. This study examined Australian teachers' preferences regarding curriculum materials, the procedures they used to select materials, and how they used the…

The needs of above-average junior high school students are discussed. A set of 'daily twisters,' or problems of various types, were collected, and examples are noted. Recommendations on content and pedagogy are described. (MNS)