Describes the "Buffon's Needle" problem, which is calculating the probability that a needle will cross one of two separated lines. Calculates the probability when the length of the needle is greater than the space of the two lines. Provides an analytic solution and the results of a computer simulation. (YP)

Developed are simple recursion formulas for generating the exact distribution of the longest run of heads, both for a fair coin and for a biased coin. Discusses the applications of runs-related phenomena such as molecular biology, Markov chains, geometric variables, and random variables. (YP)

Discussed are solutions to the problem "What is the expected number of rolls for the total first to exceed 6?" Several algebraic solutions are presented. A computer program which may be used to simulate this problem is included. (CW)

Provided are three program listings which may be used to illustrate this fractal figure. Extensions of these algorithms and their use in the study of chaos and fractals are suggested. (CW)

Designed as an avenue of communication for mathematics educators concerned with the views, ideas, and experiences of two-year college students and teachers, this journal contains articles on mathematics exposition and education, as well as regular features presenting book and software reviews and math problems. The first of two issues of volume 14…

Designed as a avenue of communication for mathematics educators concerned with the views, ideas, and experiences of two-year college students and teachers, this journal contains articles on mathematics exposition and education, and regular features presenting book and software reviews and math problems. Volume 15 includes the following articles:…

Presented is an activity in which probability and percents are taught using a basketball computer simulation. Computer programs that replicate the free-throw accuracy of college and professional stars and allow students to compete with those stars are included. (KR)

The purpose of this project is to help teachers of mathematics use the computer to aid the teaching and learning of many mathematical concepts in a meaningful way. To this end, commercially available software packages are described which are versatile, cost effective, and easy to use. A review and several lessons, each including homework…

Considered are several mathematical models that can be used to study different waiting situations. Problems involving waiting at a red light, bank, restaurant, and supermarket are discussed. A computer program which may be used with these problems is provided. (CW)

Describes two activities to introduce or extend the concept of the natural number e. Students conduct a lottery using either a table of random numbers or a computer simulation to link experimental probability results to the theoretical probability and to the number e. (MDH)

Designed as an avenue of communication for mathematics educators concerned with the views, ideas, and experiences of two-year college students and teachers, this journal contains articles on mathematics exposition and education, and regular features presenting book and software reviews and math problems. In addition to regular features such as…

Provides an annotated list of references on specific topics covering computers in general science and math. Topics include: artificial intelligence, CAI, LOGO, a heat capacity experiment, microcomputer tutorials, a Monte Carlo simulation, factoring, a geology simulation, polynomials, spreadsheets, a gas model simulation, integers, and…

This issue of the journal contains abstracts and critical comments for 13 published reports of research in mathematics education. Topics include: (1) effects of mathematics anxiety on preservice elementary teachers; (2) visualizing rectangular solids; (3) computer simulations and abstract thinking; (4) the association of foldout shapes with…

Promotes the use of computers in teaching not only to solve problems but also to help students be better at analyzing problems and developing procedures for their solution. Outlines several problems where a computer-assisted analysis can help give students a thorough understanding of the topic. (TW)

Reviews three software packages: (1) "Physics," tutorial, grades 11-12, Macintosh; (2) "Hands On Math: Volume I," interactive math exploration/simulation of manipulatives use, grades K-7, Apple II; and (3) "A.I.: An Experience with Artificial Intelligence," simulation, grades 5-12, Apple II. (MVL)