Reports on ongoing developmental research efforts to adapt the instructional design perspective of Realistic Mathematics Education (RME) to learning and teaching of collegiate mathematics using differential equations as a specific case. Focuses on the RME design heuristic of guided reinvention as a means to locate the starting point for an…

Adopts several strategies for successful teaching and learning of linear algebra, which consist of a set of computer projects allowing students to explore new concepts, make conjectures, apply theorems, and work on applied projects of their choice. The resulting improvement in student learning has been remarkable. (Contains 12 references.)…

Aims to find the influence of overcoming fixation in mathematical problem-solving towards divergent thinking in open-ended mathematics problems. Presents findings from an investigation of Japanese junior high school students. Reports that students who can overcome fixation in mathematics can contribute varied and original ideas in open-ended…

Describes the initial assessment of a range of knowledge and skills that might be desired in first-year entrants to some engineering and mathematics programs. Results are expressed in terms of probable preparedness. Discusses how information obtained can be used to design appropriate teaching, learning, and assessment strategies to best meet the…

Discusses software for geometric construction, measurement, and calculation, and software for numerical calculation and symbolic analysis that allows for new approaches to the solution of geometric problems. Illustrates these computer-aided graphical, numerical, and algebraic methods of solution and discusses examples using the appropriate choice…

Presents a study involving three sections of pre-calculus (n=181) at four-year college where partial credit scoring on multiple-choice questions was examined over an entire semester. Indicates that grades determined by partial credit scoring seemed more reflective of both the quantity and quality of student knowledge than grades determined by…

Algebraic calculators with symbolic manipulation capabilities are tools in some classrooms for 14-19 year olds, and their use in learning and teaching mathematics is likely to increase over time. Explains the reports of government-initiated working groups that consider the implications of their use in academic mathematics examinations for…

Knowledge graphs can be used by students as a tool to visualize the structure of concepts and relations between mathematical concepts. Focuses on the graphs produced by students, their appreciation of the structuring activity, and the relationship between their graphs and test results. (Contains 18 references.) (Author/ASK)

Describes the Centre at Loughborough University whose purpose is to provide a range of resources and services for students over and above those normally available. Discusses the philosophy behind its development and details a wide range of practical issues. (Author/ASK)

Discusses reasons for and ways of using computer software to teach mechanics. Describes using software to explore mechanics, challenge misconceptions, make links between mathematical representations and motion, and solve non-standard problems. Stresses the need for structured approaches to the use of software. (Contains 24 references.) (Author/ASK)

Explores the characteristics of indigenous learners and pedagogical strategies to assist in both student learning and teacher delivery. Focuses on teaching mathematics to Aboriginal learners and non-Aboriginal students in Australia and elsewhere. (Contains 14 references.) (Author/ASK)

Investigates the concepts of ratio and proportion constructed by grade 9 students by investigating their proportional reasoning schemes and procedures on three types of tasks: missing value, numerical comparison, and qualitative reasoning. Indicates that students frequently used additive reasoning--that is, a comparison of two numbers by…

Considers the attitudes and beliefs of college students in mathematics courses toward mathematics. Classifies students according to variables such as academic major, mathematical background, and gender. Discusses students' initial attitudes and changes in their attitudes identified over the course of one semester. Contains 16 references.…

Describes the results of part of a study into mathematical problem solving in secondary schools. Concludes that positive results were achieved, in part, as a consequence of the time that was spent in problem-solving lessons which allowed students to practice reading and working with word problems and working on basic material, particularly…

Starts from the premise that simultaneous study of design and learning together may throw light on epistemological and psychological issues in learning mathematics. Studies undergraduate science students who take mathematics classes and reveals a complex relationship between design and learning with implications for the design of instructional…