Discussed is the virial theorem, which is useful in classical, quantum, and statistical mechanics. Two types of derivations of this theorem are presented and the relationship between the two is explored. (BT)

The review indicates that refined measures of the family environment and the use of complex statistical models increase the understanding of the relationships between socioeconomic status, sibling variables, family environment, and cognitive development. (RC)

Examines the effect on earnings of variations among individuals in postschool human investment (namely, in work experience after the completion of schooling). Data from the Johns Hopkins Retrospective Life History Survey are analyzed to make possible a reformulation of Becker and Chiswick's econometric model to allow for additional variations…

Discusses a simple technique for stochastic resource planning that, when computerized, can assist educational managers in the process of quantifying the future uncertainty, thereby, helping them make better decisions. The example used is a school lunch program. (Author/IRT)

Provides details of a study that attempts to broaden the understanding of mathematics by investigating how applied mathematicians and biologists collaborate in developing dynamic population models. (DDR)

Describes a computer application called HyperGami that permits users to design, explore, decorate, and study a variety of paper polyhedral models. Discusses the HyperGami interface and language, illustrates the construction of customized polyhedra, and describes results of middle school students' experiences using the system. (Author/AIM)

Presents two case studies of learners attempting to understand the concept of normal distribution, specifically why physical phenomena such as height fall into normal distributions. Draws conclusions about a Connected Mathematics learning environment that enables confrontation with epistemological anxiety and the features of modeling languages…

Explains a proposed block of instruction that would give students in industrial engineering, operations research, systems engineering, and applied mathematics the basic understanding required to begin more advanced courses in simulation theory or applications. (DDR)

Investigates the thinking process underlying students' improper linear reasoning and how this process is affected by their mathematical conceptions, beliefs, and habits. Explores the actual process of problem solving from students falling into the linearity trap and the mechanism behind it. Discusses specific mathematical conceptions, habits, and…

Describes the process of mathematical modeling, an extensive teacher's guide, and a student modeling activity to improve the efficiency of soft-drink packaging. (KHR)

Presents a lesson designed to give teachers the know-how to offer secondary school students opportunities to model real-world phenomena through a variety of functions and construct and draw inferences from tables and graphs summarizing data from these situations. Investigates the roller-coaster questions in a graduate class on methods of teaching…

Addresses the observed actions of prospective Swedish mathematics teachers as they worked with a modeling situation. Explores prospective teachers' preparation to teach in grades 4-12 during a course of mathematical modeling. Focuses on preservice teachers' understanding of modeling and how they relate mathematical models to the real world.…

Discusses certain transferable skills and a strategy for developing them via an intensive short course on mathematical modeling. Includes student reactions and comments on the course. Suggests that this course developed modeling as well as generic skills through teaching, learning, and assessment style. (Author/KHR)

Uses a foundation-equalizing model to develop a number of indicators measuring the extent to which states utilize the full range of equalization tools at its disposal. Illustrates the utility of these indicators through an evaluation of the school finance reform instituted by Rhode Island between 1992 and 1996. (Contains 25 references.)…

The effectiveness of two iterative methods of item response theory (IRT) item bias detection was examined in a simulation study. A modified form of the iterative item parameter linking method of F. Drasgow and an adaptation of the test purification procedure of F. M. Lord were compared. (SLD)