The application of Bezier polynomials in computer graphics to generate curves and surfaces is presented. The use of these curves to aid in the design of automobiles is featured, and a BASIC program designed to draw a simple caricature is included. (MP)

This study investigated the impact of four student characteristics and the instructors on the relative abilities of a simulation-gaming method and the lecture-discussion method to increase the economic knowledge, retention of economic knowledge, and interest toward economics of college students enrolled in an introductory economics course.…

Technical problems in achievement testing associated with using latent structure models to estimate the probability of guessing correct responses by examinees is studied; also the lack of problems associated with using Wilcox's formula score. Maximum likelihood estimates are derived which may be applied when items are hierarchically related.…

Results of 59 studies of this relationship were integrated. Analysis revealed a substantial relationship between class size and teacher and pupil attitudes, as well as instruction. The results complement those of a previous meta-analysis that showed positive effects of class size on achievement. (Author/GK)

This paper demonstrates the feasibility of using the penalty function method to estimate parameters that are subject to a set of functional constraints in covariance structure analysis. Both types of inequality and equality constraints are studied. The approaches of maximum likelihood and generalized least squares estimation are considered.…

Methods of formulating mathematical models are discussed and problems, insights, and solutions are given. (PK)

Discusses the purpose of mathematical models and reviews the phases of the modeling process--defining performance, representing the problem, predicting performance, estimating parameters, defining optimization criterion, determining solution, and implementing results. Reviews of book-use, resource allocation, and library network models are…

Wilcox has described three probability models which characterize a single test item in terms of a population of examinees (ED 156 718). This note indicates indicates that similar models can be derived which characterize a single examinee in terms of an item domain. A numerical illustration is given. (Author/JKS)

Presents a method for carrying out the desired reduction which eliminates all ambiguities and trial-and-error. This method, which works with any properly constructed representation of any of the continuous points groups, is based upon the cosine form of the character for the arbitrary rotation operation. (HM)

Presents an undergraduate physical chemistry question and its acceptable solution. This question, presented to share exam questions with other teachers, shows the analogy between molecular kinetics and population dynamics. (HM)

An approach is described for teaching formulation of mathematical models to undergraduates with no modeling experience. Instruction is based on observation of successful patterns of behavior. (MP)

An attempt was made to validate for sentence type items a mathematical model for inventory response. Data were gathered from subjects responding under candid and under faking sets. In the former case only limited support for the model was found, but in the latter it seemed highly relevant. (Author/RC)

Illustrates how mathematicians work and do mathematical research through the use of a puzzle. Demonstrates how general rules, then theorems develop from special cases. This approach may be used as a research project in high school classrooms or math club settings with the teacher helping to formulate questions, set goals, and avoid becoming…

Presents new proofs of the Pythagorean theorem while exploring examination questions. Briefly reviews the work of Elisha Scott Loomis, a mathematician who amassed 320 different proofs of the theorem. (DDR)

Presents a mathematical model of the development of reaching behavior in infants, along with the results of two experiments that showed that infant movements could be decomposed into the underlying submovements using a principled method; and the angular error in infant reaches matches the form and magnitude of error assumed by the model. (MDM)