Investigates the impact of faculty and student characteristics on the performance of students in their last developmental mathematics course and in college algebra. Reveals that faculty gender and employment status, and student age, ethnicity, and enrollment status were significantly related to student performance in both developmental mathematics…

This study examined differences between men and women in intermediate and college algebra courses in an urban university's mathematics lab. Variables examined included grade, hours worked, semester course load, grade point average, time spent in mathematics lab, and age. Women had better course grades than men in intermediate and similar grades in…

A basic algebra unit was developed at Utah Valley State College to emphasize applications of mathematical concepts in the work world, using video and computer-generated graphics to integrate textual material. The course was implemented in three introductory algebra sections involving 80 students and taught algebraic concepts using such areas as…

Presents sample lab activities in algebra for representing functions in concrete, tabular, graphic, algebraic, and word format. Activities described actively involve students in hands-on models. Problem-solving techniques and technology help to form algebraic-thinking skills. (AIM)

Discusses the use of activities demonstrating connections between algebra and geometry, which helps students gain a conceptual understanding of important calculus ideas and gives a historical appreciation of how mathematics evolves. Uses distance, speed, and time problems as an example. (MKR)

This qualitative study is a two-part analysis of first year algebra textbooks adopted for use in South Carolina. Part 1 examines the five books selected in the 1984 adoption. This comparison of first year algebra textbooks examined: (1) whether the textbook authors had adjusted the traditional context of math texts at this level to reflect…

This brochure is part of NAEPFACTS, a new series that briefly summarizes findings from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). Course-taking is generally a powerful indicator of mathematics achievement. This occurs partially because students who are more proficient tend to take more mathematics classes and, at the eighth grade, the…

North Carolina revised its "Standard Course of Study" in 1985 to reflect the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to function in an industrial age. The entrance into what is being called the information age brings new challenges in preparing students with new skills in the areas of creative thinking, problem solving, interpersonal…

Six specific instances in which supplemental instruction (SI) leaders guide student inquiry in college algebra and calculus are described. The active learning strategies used in the situations are analyzed, focusing on the role of the leader and the support provided by SI leader training and supervision. (MSE)

Investigates secondary mathematics teachers' use of the graphing calculator in their classrooms. Examines whether algebra teachers are currently using this technology in their classrooms, their perceptions toward the technology, and any changes in the curriculum or instructional practices. Indicates that the use of the graphing calculator is still…

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.)…

Study examined the effect of frequent testing on eleventh grade algebra students' performance. One group was tested weekly and another biweekly for two months, then the testing schedule was reversed for two months, over eight months. Results indicated definite performance improvements during weekly versus biweekly testing. Students preferred…

Discusses the objectives, organization, assessment, student reactions, and evaluation of an abstract algebra course in which small-group instruction was used. Concludes that better understanding is achieved and the students assimilate more concepts using this method, although the pace is slower than that in a traditional classroom setting.…

The purpose of this series is to provide instructional ideas and materials that support implementation of the Curriculum and Evaluation Standards in local settings. This book addresses in a very practical way the content, pedagogy, and pupil assessment dimensions of reshaping school mathematics. Chapters include discussions and activities that…

Examples of subroutines that generate both symbolic and graphic solutions to differential equations are presented for the two computer algebra systems, MAPLE and Mathematica. Included are the listings for the Mathematica procedures developed for use in this article. (JJK)