Presented are exercises that demonstrate the application of standard concepts in the design of algorithms for plotting certain fractals. The exercises can be used in any course that explains the concepts of bounded or unbounded planar sets and may serve as an application in a course on complex analysis. (KR)

Compares performances of students on gas-law problems that require two distinct approaches, either the algorithmic technique or the conceptual gestalt. Indicates that student effectiveness is considerably different utilizing each approach and that training or experience with the algorithm process should not be expected to facilitate the…

A class project to design a robe for the pastor of Church of England primary school was undertaken to give children a first-hand problem-solving experience and increase their involvement in the church activities. Much mathematics and communication was required to complete this cooperative learning task. (MDH)

Reports unique solutions given to five problems from individual students in mathematics courses for prospective elementary school teachers oriented toward problem solving. Concludes that such courses are feasible, promote problem-solving abilities and strategies, and develop appreciation and confidence in preservice teachers. (MDH)

The improvement of the problem-solving processes of school administrators is explored by examining the following: (1) role of systematic instruction; (2) impact of instructional focus on general processes used by experts; and (3) promising strategies. Subjects are 14 principals and 8 first-year vice principals in Toronto (Canada). (SLD)

Presents an experiment to examine the relative effects of cooperative groups versus independent practice in helping students encode problem-solving strategies into their long-term memory. Four classes of 126 prealgebra students were randomly assigned to employ the 2 methodologies. Students who practiced in cooperative groups demonstrated greater…

Utilizes a quasiexperimental design to examine the impact of microcomputer simulations on environmental problem solving by community college students. The experimental group of students (n=34) showed a highly significant improvement in problem-solving skills after being exposed to three simulation models that focused on lake pollution analysis,…

Describes a study of high school students that investigated the use of microcomputers to teach principles relating to the design and interpretation of graphs. Results related to student achievement, higher order thinking skills, and behavioral protocols are discussed. A sample assignment sheet and test questions are appended. (66 references) (LRW)

Discussion of the instructional effectiveness of educational software focuses on a study of undergraduates that investigated the effectiveness of a problem-solving program designed to assist students in solving nonlinear optimization problems. Results are reported that indicate manual procedures resulted in greater learning than use of the…

Describes how college students enrolled in a course in elementary algebra apply graphing and algebra to data collected from a seismic profile to uncover the structure of a subterranean rock formation. Includes steps guiding the activity. (MDH)

Methods used by adults to read numerals were investigated by asking graduate students in education to read and solve mathematics problems. Eye movement studies noted reading patterns. Distinct first reading and rereading phases and two distinct methods of reading numerals were identified. (SLD)

Describes the four-week summer program of the Native Americans in Biological Sciences Program that engages Native American eighth- and ninth-grade students in studying the problems related to the waste water treatment plant in Cushing, Oklahoma. (MDH)

College and university development officers are encouraged to adjust their expectations of volunteers to the current reality of graduates' schedules and commitments. Five barriers to volunteering (economic, time and distance, language and cultural, environmental, and competitive) are identified, and techniques for overcoming them are offered. (MSE)

Interprets and contrasts children's mathematical interaction from the points of view of radical constructivism and of Soviet activity theory. Proposes a superseding model based on the interrelations between the basic sequence of actions and perturbation and the interaction of constructs. Supports the model by describing how children used…

Proposes a new model of children's mathematics by composing aspects of the Fraction Project and critiques presented in the same issue. Argues that computer microworlds provide children with dynamic learning environments in which they are the primary actors and teachers with a medium for interact with children's mathematics while trying to maintain…