A computerized adaptive test (CAT) may be modeled as a closed-loop system, where item selection is influenced by trait level ([theta]) estimation and vice versa. When discrepancies exist between an examinee's estimated and true [theta] levels, nonoptimal item selection is a likely result. Nevertheless, examinee response behavior consistent with…

This article examines the relevancy of large-scale, quantitative methodologies in middle grades education research. Based on recommendations from national advocacy organizations, the need for more large-scale, quantitative research, combined with the application of more rigorous methodologies, is presented. Subsequent sections describe and discuss…

Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess heritability of activity, attention, and impulsivity by comparing young monozygotic (MZ) twins with dizygotic (DZ) twins using objective measures. Method: The OPTAx test is an infrared motion analysis to record the movement pattern during a continuous performance test. Seventeen MZ and 12 same…

This article describes a calculus project that exposes students to the concept of retirement annuities in both the saving and withdrawal phases, via revenue streams represented by integrals. Students use modeling skills to solve several related problems as the assumptions of the original problem are changed, and the project requires them to use a…

A semiotic perspective on mathematical activity provides a way of conceptualizing the teaching and learning of mathematics that transcends and encompasses both psychological perspectives focussing exclusively on mental structures and functions, and performance-focussed perspectives concerned only with student's behaviours. Instead it considers the…

Nondeterminism is an essential concept in mathematics and one of the important concepts in computer science. It is also among the most abstract ones. Thus, many students find it difficult to cope with. In this article, we describe some didactic considerations, which guided the development of a "Computational Models" course for high school…

Background and aims: In order to develop arithmetic expertise, children must understand arithmetic principles, such as the inverse relationship between addition and subtraction, in addition to learning calculation skills. We report two experiments that investigate children's understanding of the principle of inversion and the relationship between…

This report identifies 13 instructional strategies for teaching adult numeracy skills that address issues of assessment, development of mathematical skills, and development of problem-solving skills. The rationale and suggestions regarding the following 13 instructional principles are described: address and evaluate attitudes and beliefs about…

The purpose of this game, intended for grades 7-9, is to enable students to have fun and enjoy mathematics while learning and reinforcing: (1) mathematical concepts and applications; (2) mathematical computations; (3) geometry; and (4) mathematics for daily living. A gameboard and 232 question/answer cards are provided. Rules for play are…

Mathematics competitions are a popular extracurricular activity for students at all grade levels. This booklet outlines some of the logistical and structural issues that competition organizers, administrators, coaches, and question writers face when they incorporate calculators into their competitions. Main topics included are: (1) "Decisions…

This book was written to help teachers to plan and implement an effective addition-subtraction basic fact program. When it is determined that children have gained an adequate concept for an operation, the next long-range goal is fact memorization. Children need to respond quickly and correctly to number facts and retain this learning over time. To…

This handbook is intended to help craft lecturers in further education colleges teach students who have difficulties with basic communication skills, including reading, writing, and calculation. It gives suggestions on how craft lecturers can help students improve their literacy and numeracy in the workshop and classroom. Examples based on…

This is the teacher's manual to accompany part 1 of the workbook for grade 1 pupils in the Comprehensive Instructional Management System, a teacher-designed unified mathematics curriculum for kindergarten through grade 7. It is composed of a curriculum, a testing component, and a computer-managed reporting system. The curriculum is organized into…

This test for third grade students in Alberta, Canada, consists of two sections. Section I is divided into two parts: Part A has 25 questions covering numeration, geometry, and graphing, and part B has 25 questions covering operations and properties, measurement, and problem-solving strategies. Section II consists of four basic-fact tests in…

This case study presents a descriptive portrait of how one general mathematics teacher transformed her classes from a computational to a conceptual orientation. The outcomes of the transformation for student learning and instruction are discussed. The findings suggest student gains in computational competence, mathematical effort, and attitude via…