Reports a correlational study to determine whether teacher's mathematics anxiety might inhibit the introduction of more problem solving and abstraction in elementary schools to enable more ninth graders to enroll in algebra. Correlations on 19 variables for 116 teachers indicated that anxiety decreased with increased mathematics content studied…

An algebra test administered to (n=18) first-year college students found a disregard for negative numbers, ineffective use of counterexamples, misapplication of rules, and a lack of a good grasp of relevant mathematical terminology. (12 references) (MKR)

This study compared the effectiveness of using classwide peer tutoring (CWPT) in 14 heterogeneous eighth-grade math classrooms with traditional independent student practice to teach problem-solving skills to students in beginning algebra. Both CWPT and independent practice were equally effective strategies with students identified as at risk or…

Illustrates use of rule space as a tool for cognitive analysis of students' mathematical behavior. The rule-space approach is explained and used to classify students according to two methods for solving linear algebraic equations in one unknown and diagnose their knowledge states on this topic. (Author/MDH)

Hierarchical (adaptive) and linear methods of testlet construction were compared. The performance of 2,080 ninth and tenth graders on a 4-item testlet was used to predict performance on the entire test. The adaptive test was slightly superior as a predictor, but the cost of obtaining that superiority was considerable. (SLD)

This paper illustrates the use of rule space as a tool to support cognitive analyses of students' mathematical behavior. The rule space approach is explained and is then used to classify students into one of two methods for solving linear algebraic equations in one unknown and to diagnose their knowledge states in this topic. A 32-item test with…

Examines how components of the concept of function (variable, domain, and range) and the process-object duality in its nature emerge as highly relevant to student learning in various mathematical contexts related to linear and abstract algebra. (Contains 22 references.) (ASK)

A computer algebra system was integrated into instruction for two large classes of mathematics for business and the social sciences. Comparisons of student achievement and attitude showed no significant differences, but other implications of the study are discussed. (23 references) (LZ)

Undergraduates in an abstract algebra course were interviewed to see how they learned the concept of isomorphism. Analysis showed students used step-by-step procedures, exhibited various degrees of personification in their language, and chose properties they perceived as simpler. (MKR)

Describes a study examining the effect of hand-held calculators on student achievement in college developmental mathematics classes. Finds no significant differences between control and treatment groups, indicating that students who used calculators scored slightly lower on posttests but achieved higher final course grades as a group than control…

Provides details of a study on mathematics learning that applies Bruner's concept of format of interaction which is employed in language acquisition theory and in understanding mathematical augmentation. Describes the interactions among tutors, students, and their linear algebra text. (DDR)

The effects on college students' (n=110) attitudes of using a microcomputer as a demonstration aid was investigated in an intermediate algebra class. Results suggest a significant treatment effect on students' attitude favoring the microcomputer treatment group. (16 references) (MDH)

As a result of questions arising from differences in performance on Algebra 1 final examinations by school during the 1999-2000 school year, students' middle school mathematics experiences have received renewed focus. Specific questions have arisen regarding whether all students are sufficiently prepared to handle algebraic content by grade 8 or…

This document provides a preliminary report of the study Gateways To Advance Mathematical Thinking (GAMT) run by Educational Development Center, Inc. (EDC). The study was designed to see what types of reasoning students who have recently completed a linear algebra course apply to problems in algebraic thinking. Student interviews were used as the…

Surveys of 295 undergraduate students in college algebra and precalculus about their perceptions of mathematics found that agreement with some mathematical myths can be reduced with more mathematical preparation of students. Suggests strategies to overcome these myths. (13 references) (MKR)