Discusses the meaning of symmetry of the laws of physics and symmetry of the universe and the connection between symmetries and asymmetries of the laws of physics and those of the universe. An explanation of Hamilton's principle is offered. The material is suitable for informal discussions with students. (Author/SK)

An integral equation for the s-wave bound-state solution is derived and then solved for a square-well potential. It is shown that the scattering solutions continue to exist at negative energies, and when evaluated at the energy of a bound state these solutions do reduce to the bound-state solution.

The development of a mathematics model to simulate small animal populations is described. Assumptions of the population model and options in the program are discussed. (MK)

Details of a course on mathematical modeling for graduate teachers of mathematics are presented. The rationale, objectives, course content, assessment methods are discussed along with several illustrative examples and difficulties encountered in finding appropriate problems. (MP)

Student weaknesses on problem-solving portions of the NAEP mathematics assessment are discussed using Polya's heuristics as a framework. Recommendations for classroom instruction are discussed. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Interpretation).

Results partially confirm the hypothesis that variations in collective bargaining agreements and major contract areas can be explained by the economic and institutional environments in which negotiations occur. (Author/IRT)

A model of competition probabilities using past performances of competitors against common opponents is constructed. Application to predicting victories in athletic competitions is also reviewed. (MP)

Large-scale Markov chain models and Monte Carlo simulation, two types of models useful for academic managers to analyze academic staffing policies, are described. Their relative advantages and disadvantages regarding technical requirements and performance, as well as managerial usefulness at different levels of the university, are discussed.…

Not only did voter power contribute meaningfully to local control behavior regardless of the exact shape of the relations between state aid and local control, but the hypothesized inverse relationship between state aid and local control did not receive support. Journal availability: see EA 511 898. (Author/IRT)

Argues that Blacks have begun to receive monetary benefits from education commensurate with those of Whites and that the gap has narrowed because of the relative upgrading of educational quality for Blacks. Available from American Economic Review, 1313 21st Avenue So., Suite 809, Nashville, TN 37212. (Author/IRT)

Ten models are proposed for predicting a student's final grade placement in a computer-assisted instruction curriculum from the time the student spends taking lessons. Two of the simplest models, using only the most recent point and parameters estimated for the whole group, are best at prediction. (Author/RD)

Demonstrates how teachers can move their students from the novice into the expert range of problem-solving strategies. Utilizes a problem-solving model that follows how such skills develop. (DDR)

Describes in economic and mathematical terms the learning production process at the individual level. Presents a model to determine which factors influence this process. Tests the model, using data from two widely divergent learning situations, ranging from lecture-oriented college economics courses to programmed instruction to learn eighth-grade…

Investigates the use of mathematical modeling tasks in 11- and 12-year-old students and the development of mathematical thinking skills using practical modeling activities. Analyzes the development of students' mathematical thinking with interviews of a form of dynamic assessment. Reports that some students proved to be naturally mindful and…

Examines four areas of difficulty with graphing and modeling, identifies confusions and misconceptions, and shows how these areas interact in the presence of data-collection devices. (KHR)