The goal of this article is to introduce the topic of "learning to reason from samples," which is the focus of this special issue of "Educational Studies in Mathematics" on "statistical reasoning." Samples are data sets, taken from some wider universe (e.g., a population or a process) using a particular procedure…

This paper presents a critical review of literature investigating assessment of mathematical modelling. Written tests, projects, hands-on tests, portfolio and contests are modes of modelling assessment identified in this study. The written tests found in the reviewed papers draw on an atomistic view on modelling competencies, whereas projects are…

In the last three decades there have been a variety of studies of what is often referred to as "everyday" or "street" mathematics. These studies have documented a rich variety of arithmetic practices involved in activities such as tailoring, carpet laying, dieting, or grocery shopping. More importantly, these studies have helped to rectify…

Simplicity arguments are to be found in most geometrical works, from those of Proclus in his "Commentaries on the First Book of Euclid's Elements," up to those of contemporary manuals. Our goal is to read these arguments in their historical contexts to analyze agreements, disagreements and the multiplicity of points of view. For a better…

This paper reports a survey of research in mathematics teacher education from 1999 to 2003 done by an international team of five mathematics educators and researchers. The survey included published research in international mathematics education journals, international handbooks of mathematics education and international mathematics education…

Analyzes articles in "Educational Studies in Mathematics" since 1990. Reviews production and use of theories of teaching and learning mathematics. Outlines the theoretical framework of the tools of analysis and discusses methodological difficulties. Presents findings from the analysis of the journal and gives one example of how to read an article,…

Suggests that strategy choice is a misleading characterization of efficient mental calculation and that teaching mental calculation methods as a whole is not conducive to flexibility. Proposes an alternative in which calculation is thought of as an interaction between noticing and knowledge. Presents an associated teaching approach to promote…

Classifies ethnomathematics in relation to the teaching of formal, academic mathematics. Investigates whether ethnomathematics should replace academic mathematics, be a supplement to the mathematics curriculum, be used as a springboard for academic mathematics, or be taken into consideration when preparing learning situations. Suggests that only…

Reports the findings of a study aimed at learning from students and teachers in Black schools what classroom practices lead to success in school mathematics in their impoverished context. (Author/KHR)

Analyzes the context and status of mathematics education reform in Malawi through four developments in the reform of secondary education. Describes attempts to increase access to secondary education for the majority of Malawians. Suggests that limitations in the reform process are a function of inadequate understanding of the social-contextual…

Surveys recent literature on the use and value of the history of geometry in mathematics education. Makes the case that arguments can be divided into conceptual, (multi-) cultural and motivational ones. Details about content and purpose of the literature surveyed are presented in two appendices. (Author/MM)

Considers examples of aspects of the infinitely small and large as they unfolded in the history of calculus from the 17th through the 20th centuries. Presents didactic observations at relevant places in the historical account. (Author/MM)

The common goal of the empirical studies discussed in this analysis was to assist children in developing a meaningful understanding of the rational number construct, founded on durable fraction concepts. Some research has focused on partitioning; some on ratio and proportion. Contains 59 references. (Author/MKR)

The literature on proportional reasoning is reviewed. After methodology is discussed, strategies used to solve proportion problems, variables that influence performance, and training studies are each considered. (MNS)

Presents results of a series of analyses of educational situations involving cultural issues. Of particular significance are the ideas that all cultural groups generate mathematical ideas, and that "Western" mathematics may be only one mathematics among many. The values associated with Western mathematics and other issues are also discussed.…