Discusses some of the aspects of problem solving that teachers can observe for assessment purposes in a student's practical and written work. Suggests that these observations can be incorporated into a student's assessment traditionally or using alternative assessment devices. (PK)

Examines the historical development of logarithm tables. Suggests that students should write computer programs to calculate logarithms. (PK)

This paper reports on a study of the implementation of a new mathematics curriculum and its effect on the teachers implementing it. The study focused on understanding the barriers teachers faced with implementing new curriculum that relies on a different theoretical base than the teachers had previously experienced. Participants in the study were…

Briefly reviews three programs which foster self-directed learning: "Unified Sciences and Mathematics for Elementary Schools,""Environmental Studies," and "Science 5/13." Includes a chart of words and phrases characterizing self-directed and other-directed learning. (SK)

The Department of Education and the National Science Foundation report that pre-college science, mathematics, and engineering education are adequate for students who are career oriented in those fields but inadequate for the remaining students. Professional education in these same areas is also inadequate. Discusses reasons, problems and possible…

Discussed are inconsistencies and cognitive conflict with respect to current mathematical knowledge of students and how that knowledge might be modified is discussed. The inconsistencies that students generate for themselves and those produced by the teacher are described. (KR)

Examines the relationship between pupil characteristics of income, gender, chronological age, and level of cognitive development and selected domain-specific skills in mathematics. Results show mathematics performance as a function of the quality of thinking. Teaching to cognitive developmental level requires an individualized approach to…

Compared is the use of Euclidean and synthetic geometry in American and European schools. Included is the history of the major developments in the teaching of geometry. Discussed is the demise of formal geometry since World War II. (KR)

Reviews literature related to physiological differences between boys and girls and the relationship to mathematical achievement. The areas of intelligence, spatial visualization, and brain laterality are examined. Suggests further questions for research. Lists 30 references. (YP)

Provides a behaviorist's approach to learning with the microcomputer. Considers the philosophy of dealing with computer learning including: drill and practice, using a word processor, problem solving, remedial work, simulations, tutorials, computer managed instruction, computer literacy, and inservice education. (MVL)

Presents practical, teacher-tested tools and techniques based on National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) standards for teaching mathematics. Covers Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI) technique; story problems across the curriculum; advantages of using calculators in instruction; and manipulatives for plane geometry. Includes a chart…

Reviews research of writing activities that help identify student misconceptions and serve as a vehicle for knowledge construction. (29 references) (MDH)

Proposes that problem scenarios are activities that give students opportunities to employ mathematics across the curriculum by asking them to define problems, identify information needed and potential sources of data, and make related conjectures. Discusses an example of a scenario involving transportation. (MDH)

Describes the team selection process and the organization of the mathematics component of the Environmental Studies Academic Pentathlon. The mathematics component consisted of environmental research, research methodology, and statistics. Groups submitted papers on seven environmental issues, and individuals designed and reported research studies…

Presents and discusses assumptions for a general-mathematics problem-solving curriculum that incorporate the belief that all students can do algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, that mathematics must be presented in problem situations, and that students should work cooperatively. Worksheets provide exemplary problem-solving activities. (MDH)