Infrared spectroscopy (IR) is a staple structural elucidation and characterization technique because of its ability to identify functional groups and its ease of use. Interestingly, it allows the capture of electronic effects via their influence on the bond strength of "probes", such as the carbonyl group and also offers a wealth of…

In this article, we draw on assemblage theory to investigate how children aged 5 engage with different material surfaces to explore ordinal and relational aspects of number. The children participate in an activity in which they first interact with a strip on the floor, then with a multi-touch iPad application, to work with numbers in expressive…

In the information age, where all answers are just a click away, curiosity, the intrinsic drive to learn, becomes of paramount importance. How easy is it to prime for curiosity and what are its effects? What simple interventions can be used to enable curiosity-driven behaviors? We have conducted a large-scale study to address these questions,…

A unit on the quadratic equation is described. The discovery approach is used and the computer is integrated into the study of mathematics. (MK)

Having students try to generate their own random numbers can lead to much discovery learning as one tries to create 'patternlessness' from formulas. Developing an equidistribution test and runs test, plus other ideas for generating random numbers, is discussed, with computer programs given. (MNS)

An intuitive approach to exponential functions is described. Microcomputers are used to aid discovery of derivatives. (MNS)

Suggestions are given for having students write or modify computer programs for listing prime positive integers and continued fractions, to help them discover mathematical concepts. Sample programs are included. (MNS)

Uses Derive as an instructional tool to investigate asymptotic behavior of rational functions. Activities focus on reducing manipulation and computation and on generating multiple examples to focus on discovery of the concept rather than a summary of rules. (MLN)

Maintains that most computer tutorials retain a print orientation substituting connected computer screens for the pages of a book. Argues for a more creative use of computers' interactive capability. Presents three model tutorials concerning the Maastricht Treaty and U.S. Constitutional ratification. (MJP)

Examples of composite functions present students with intriguing questions that they can explore using calculators and computers, geometric and algebraic methods, and approximation techniques. Student-centered activities allow students to make discoveries about functions. (MLN)

Describes an activity intended to incorporate investigation into learning of mathematics. The example cited involved having fourth graders study perimeter and area of rectangles using Logo. The author suggests that what began as a simple exercise in investigating geometric concepts became an exciting exploration that touched on many topics. (PK)