Suggests that fuzzy-trace theory may replace dominant metaphors of cognitive development. Discusses theoretical climate of the 1980s when the theory was first formulated. Describes how, by integrating new ideas about how cognitive development was viewed into a coherent framework, the theory slowly gained acceptance as critical aspects of it were…

Investigates the cereal box problem using both an experimental and theoretical framework, and Monte Carlo methods. Using empirical data, students can discover patterns and relationships that help them understand the origin of the theoretical solution to the problem. Contains 17 references. (Author/ASK)

Offers a real problem for students with younger siblings that uses a board game and illustrates the use of modeling and simulation. (ASK)

Presents a hands-on modeling experiment that focuses on hyperbolic functions, asymptotes, data analysis, applied statistics, and optimization problems. (ASK)

Employing a simple enrollment-demand model, investigates the regional market environment of a private, church-related, comprehensive university. Finds a significant competitive threat coming from the private sector within the region, which raises the net price elasticity of demand for this institution to well above unity. (22 references) (MLH)

Examines structural features of grade point averages (GPAs) and offers examples showing that GPAs cannot consistently determine class rank since class rank is sometimes permuted with arbitrary change of scale. Notes relativistic efforts to resolve inconsistencies are insufficient. Discusses the function of GPAs as predictors of academic…

Calculates the angular velocity of a spinning top without the simplifying assumption found in most textbooks that the total angular momentum is solely along the symmetry axis. (WRM)

Demonstrates how perspectives from covariance structural modeling and generalizability theory can be combined for a comprehensive assessment of latent constructs. This approach to examining variance components is illustrated by one- and two- facet designs, and can be extended to more complex designs. (MAK)

Recent public higher education spending cuts have often been matched by tuition increases, resulting in possible declines in college graduates and in personal income tax receipts. Applying a net present-value model to quantify New York State data suggests that potential revenue losses quickly dwarf short-term budgetary savings. (Contains 21…

The sensitivity analysis of structural equation models when minor perturbation is introduced is investigated. An influence measure based on the general case weight perturbation is derived for the generalized least squares estimation, and an influence measure is developed for the special case deletion perturbation scheme. (Author/SLD)

Presents the historical development of required undergraduate core mathematics courses. Suggests that a new core course--discrete dynamical modeling--is needed to prepare students for success in the information age. Contains 17 references. (Author/ASK)

Describes in detail several activities designed for students studying dynamics. Incorporates life-related mathematical modeling and practical work. Uses computer technology as a tool. (Contains 15 references.) (ASK)

Describes the Treisman model which involves supplemental workshops in which college students solve problems in collaborative learning groups. Reports on the effectiveness of Math Excel, an implementation of the Treisman model for introductory mathematics courses at Oregon State University over five academic terms. Reveals a significant effect on…

Using a large German Socioeconomic Panel data set for the period 1984-98, investigates the wage effects of two different measures of educational mismatch, overeducation and undereducation, when controlling for unobserved heterogeneity. Finds that wages differences between overeducated and undereducated workers totally disappear in most cases.…

Examines several alternative ways for school districts to reduce the construction costs of new facilities. Finds that spacing out the start of facility construction projects and building during economic downturns in the construction industry offer the best options for construction cost savings. (PKP)