Two problems related to the mean-value theorem lead into a problem requiring the use of the universal chord theorem. This latter theorem is discussed and a proof given. (MP)

Identifies points where beliefs are important when making decisions about how graphs are drawn. Describes a simple case of the reaction between 'bicarb soda' and orange or lemon juice and discusses how drawing a graph becomes a statement of belief. (KHR)

Discussion of information overload focuses on a study of masters degree students at a Hong Kong university that investigated the effectiveness of graphs as decision aids to reduce adverse effects of information overload on decision quality. Results of a simulation of a business prediction task with a sample of business managers are presented.…

Outlines the differences between the traditional and modern theoretical models of demand for money. States that the two models are often used interchangeably in textbooks, causing ambiguity. Argues against the use of linear specifications that imply that income velocity can increase without limit and that autonomous components of aggregate demand…

Suggests that new computer software enables writers and technicians to compose graphs that rival those made by professionals. Suggests that professional and novice users of such software either intend to distort data and manipulate readers or do so out of ignorance. Describes and illuminates seven types of distortion in graphs. (PA)

Two ideal-point probabilistic choice models from the external analysis of preferences are presented that allow for more flexible distributions of ideal-points. The first extends the probit model of W. Kamakura and R. Srivastava. The second is based on simplifying assumptions that lead to a multidimensional histogram of ideal-points. (SLD)

Compares probabilistic models of same-different and identification judgments concerning their sensitivity to perceptual dependence or the degree to which underlying psychological dimensions are correlated. Results support a perceptual independence assumption when using these models and pertain to studies of different decision rules used at…

This research, part of the ongoing study to better understand Web page ranking on the Web, looks at a Web page as a graph structure or Web graph, and classifies different Web graphs in the new coordinate space (out-degree, in-degree). Google's Web ranking algorithm (Brin & Page, 1998) on ranking Web pages is applied in this new coordinate…

Presents a profile of Ann Wagner, a mechanical engineer at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland, and her job responsibilities there. Also includes a brief history of mechanical engineering as well as a sample graph and data activity sheet with answers. (AIM)

Investigates 10th grade students' ability to handle data and interpretation by using a variety of tasks. Discusses the importance of developing student discussion as a route to better conceptual understanding of data presented in graphical form. (Contains 15 references.) (Author/YDS)

Reports on a study designed to find out what scientists and science students actually do when they are reading familiar and unfamiliar graphs. Describes changes in ontologies of scientists and science students as they engage in the reading tasks assigned to them. Theorizes a transition of graphs from things to signs that come to stand for natural…

Presents concrete graphing experiences from the United States. (Author/CCM)

Mathematics should not be studied simply because it is useful; mathematics should be also studied because it nurtures both the mind and soul with its beauty. By completing the four activities described in this paper, students will appreciate mathematical ideas both rationally and emotionally. Since students' appreciation of mathematical ideas…

The present study investigates the differential effects of cooperative learning with or without metacognitive instruction on making sense of graphs. Participants were 196 eighth-graders who studied in six classrooms. Data were analyzed by using quantitative and qualitative methods. Results indicated that students who were exposed to the…

When discussing the topic of elementary complex variables, students are often mystified by the fact that ii is real. After seeing a proof of this statement, a standard question is "well, what about iii or iiii etc., are these real or complex?" In this paper the meaning of the infinite power-tower iii...is considered both from the "bottom-up" and…