Middle school algebra classes were observed to examine the multiple variables interacting in learning of algebra. Middle school algebra classes were especially informative because of the significant impact of the students' cognitive development transitions from concrete to formal operations. The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (1989)…

Georgia's Gainesville College conducted a study to determine the relationship between students' remedial needs and their grades in two required algebra courses: Math 104, introductory algebra for non-science majors, and Math 151, introductory algebra for science and math majors. Grades for the first attempt in these courses were collected for…

Four classes (n=53) of Basic Algebra and five classes (n=50) of Intermediate Algebra in a community college setting were randomly assigned to sections either using or not using computer assisted instruction (CAI) supplemental to classroom instruction. Based on standardized pre- and posttest scores, students using supplemental CAI in Basic Algebra…

The percentage of high school students passing the first semester Algebra 1A final exam in January 2000 dropped precipitously from the passing rate one year earlier. That decline in final exam passing rates was due largely to the adoption among all schools of a uniform algebra exam combined with a system-wide uniform grading scale. High school…

Pre- and posttests of prerequisite vocabulary terms were given to (n=162) intermediate and (n=178) college algebra students to determine their word knowledge and differences between the intermediate and college algebra students. (11 references) (MKR)

Describes learning-disabled algebra classes offered at Bergen Community College, their structure, teaching and learning strategies used in the classes, and successful outcomes. Concludes that students with learning disabilities can learn algebra when their environment focuses on their needs and learning styles. (KHR)

Dispositions of eighth graders accelerated into first-year algebra were described in this study. Data were collected through surveys, observations, interviews, and cumulative academic files. The most frequently reported reasons for enrolling in algebra were for acceleration of course-taking and preparation for high school. Males demonstrated a…

Surveys of mathematics department chairpersons about changes in algebra instructional practices in response to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' Curriculum and Evaluation Standards showed wide variation across schools. Contains survey questions on practices in algebra and a bibliography of first-year algebra textbooks. (12…

Describes a hierarchical text database model and defines an algebra based on concordance lists. The algebra is presented as a theoretical model to define both a conceptual schema for the database and search protocols for database implementation. Several retrieval examples are included. (19 references) (MES)

In Fall 1994, the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD), in California, conducted a study to determine the validity of the Mathematics Diagnostic Testing Project (MDTP) placement test. The MDTP provides tests at four levels (i.e., algebra readiness, elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, and pre-calculus) and is used in the District for…

Discusses the implications of a research study of more than 2000 students aged 11 to 15 that explored why the students interpret algebra in certain ways. Recommends strategies that can help teachers deal with prior knowledge that students may bring to their study of algebra. (DDR)

Research indicates that students have great difficulty solving certain algebra word problems. These solutions, moreover, appear to be due to some situational factors characteristic of algebra problems, e.g., presentation and response format. This study investigates students' preconceptions, post facto alternative concepts based on key features of…

This paper reports on a case study that was conducted at five high schools from a large, urban school district located in South Texas. The purpose of the study was to gain an understanding of Algebra 1 teaching strategies. The research questions were: (1) What is the predominant mode of instruction for Algebra 1? and (2) What is the level of…

Presents computer approach formulated within a framework of versatile thinking designed to overcome obstacles to understanding algebra. Results from related studies comparing the computer and traditional approaches taught to 11, 12, and 13 year olds showed that the computer approach significantly improved the understanding of higher order concepts…

In 1991, a survey was conducted at California's Sierra College (SC) to determine the types of students enrolling in algebra classes and to explore their attitudes about mathematics. The student population surveyed consisted of all students enrolled in 27 algebra class sections on the SC campus. The survey focused on students' reasons for enrolling…