A generalization of a well-known result for the arctangent function poses a number of interesting questions concerning the existence of integer solutions of related problems.

This paper compliments two recent articles by the author in this journal concerning solving the forced harmonic oscillator equation when the forcing is periodic. The idea is to replace the forcing function by its Fourier series and solve the differential equation term-by-term. Herein the convergence of such series solutions is investigated when…

Describes the introduction of the Modelling Track in a Mathematical Engineering curriculum as a response to the employers' complaints about Dutch graduates' poor ability to apply theoretical knowledge. Describes the introduction of Design Based Learning (DBL), meaning professionalization, activation, co-operation, creativity, integration and…

Links the use of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) to an existing classification scheme for mathematical tasks called the MATH Taxonomy. Illustrates through concrete examples how the goals of teaching and learning mathematics can be set using this classification together with the CAS. (Author/MM)

Workplace mathematics and statistics are essential for communication and decision-making, and mathematics, statistics, and technology education in/for the workplace must take into account the cultural diversity that exists within and between workplaces. Outlines some ways in which to address the challenge of making mathematics, statistics, and…

Argues that the history of mathematics may be an efficient element to provide students with flexibility, open-mindedness, and motivation towards mathematics. Illustrates examples, one of which concerns an historical presentation of 'definition' that was developed with mathematics students who will become mathematics teachers. (Contains 19…

The perennial debate over whether mathematics should be taught by mathematicians or engineers looks increasingly anachronistic in the light of technological change. Suggests that it is more instructive to examine the potential of technology for changing the relationship between mathematicians and engineers, and for connecting their respective…

Proposes that the style and format of questions used by lecturers and tutors profoundly influence students' conceptions of what mathematics is about and how it is conducted. Use of questions depends on both scaffolding and fading their use in front of students so that students internalize questions for their own learning and practice of…

Some contemporary school individualized learning systems in mathematics are discussed and analyzed with advantages and disadvantages listed to assist in designing curriculum materials. (MP)

Concern about certain of the difficulties encountered by undergraduate students in learning mathematics is discussed. Three attitudes of present-day undergraduates which contribute significantly to the difficulties encountered by students are examined. (Author/MK)

This paper investigates similarities and differences between the computer and the human brain in terms of thought processes and develops the theory that the computer can learn, is intelligent and does satisfy educational learning requirements. (Author/MK)

The concept of school curriculum in science and mathematics is discussed and related to the structures of the disciplines and theory developments. Recent epistemological studies on theory dynamics (Kuhn, Sneed) are put into context with the understanding of learning processes. (Author/MK)

A simple enumeration problem from some research on problem solving is used to illustrate the contention that conjecture and proof have a central place in mathematics teaching. (Author/TG)

Low motivation to study abstract theoretical material and lack of background in mathematics are two problems encountered by students learning electronics. To combat these problems a systems approach to learning is suggested for the study of electrical circuits and devices. (Author/TG)