Describes the use of microcomputers in physics experiments to extend powers of observation, increase the accuracy of measurements taken, and obtain large amounts of high quality information, especially continuous and rapidly changing/moving data. Discusses software for interfacing a microcomputer with mechanics experiments. (JRH)

Describes the Global Perspective Program of the Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) which addresses the problem of preparing engineers for global careers through a project program. Discusses developing the project programs in Asia, working with Bangkok's recycling needs, and chemical process safety in Taiwan. (JRH)

Describes activities for Technical Algebra, which provides students an opportunity to solve algebraic problems through a hands-on, instructional process. (MKR)

Students can learn to make algebra, trigonometry, and geometry work for them by using matrices to rotate figures on the graphics screen of a graphing calculator. Includes a software program, TRNSFORM, for the TI-81 graphing calculator which can draw and rotate a triangle. (MKR)

Presents data from interviews of (n=15) precalculus teachers required to adopt the technology-intensive Demana/Waits Precalculus Mathematics textbook and to use graphing calculators in their precalculus classes. Results showed that teachers recognized the need for well-organized, extensive workshops. Teacher comments showed a disparity in their…

Describes the use of a soroban, a base-10 computer which is a relative of the Chinese abacus, for developing concepts of number sense, place value, operation sense, and mental computation. Provides pictures of the soroban. (MKR)

Describes two activities to analyze unit-cell structures from a geometric viewpoint and invites students to apply their mathematical understanding to scientific phenomena. Students form models of the simple cube, a building block of crystalline structures, and a methane molecule. (MKR)

Presents transcripts of interviews with two children to illustrate their understanding of traditional fraction notation. Suggests an activity to help children construct schemes to coordinate units. (MKR)

Describes some real-life problem situations and the mathematical applications used to solve the situations in order to promote an inquiring and problem-posing approach. (MKR)

Discusses the use of MAPLE, a computer algebra system, to find Chinese pseudoprimes. (MKR)

Investigation of the views and attitudes on proofs held by (n=10) year-2 mathematics undergraduates found that students were aware of the verification and explanation nature of proofs, but the communication and persuasion aspects of proofs were less evident. (MKR)

Describes the use of linear equations having unique solutions and nonunique solutions in the balancing of chemical equations. (MKR)

Summarizes interviews with British West Indies children concerning the production of art and the role of the artist. Demonstrates that children's perceptions undergo a shift from naive realism (pretty things make pretty pictures) to a more interpretive stance (the artist's efforts define the final product). (MJP)