Views information as residual or catalytic form of energy which regulates other forms of energy in natural and artificial systems. Parallel human information processing (production systems, algorithms, heuristics) and information measurement are discussed. Suggestions for future research in area of parallel information processing include a matrix…

The forum is focused on thinking about and with algorithms as a way of unifying all one's mathematical endeavors. The lead article by Maurer presents examples and discussion of this point. Responses, often disagreeing with his views, are by Douglas, Korte, Hilton, Renz, Smorynski, Hammersley, and Halmos. (MNS)

The conceptual difference between understanding and algorithmic performance is examined first. Then some dilemmas that flow from these distinctions are discussed. (MNS)

Offers characterization of sign-transmission which is more general than conventional signal-transmission theory. Concepts and terminology, formal description of individual communications process, reconciliation with classical signal-detection theory, applications of sign-detection formalism to information retrieval on MEDLINE database, and a…

Proposes algorithmic method of searching and presents experimental data testing efficacy of using Boolean negation to eliminate redundancy and reduce cognitive strain of communication barrier at human-computer interface. Cognitive information processes, concept of Boolean NOT, and problem-solving behavior are explored. Twenty-five references are…

The author presents and elaborates on a division algorithm devised by his 9-year-old son. (MK)

An algorithm is first defined by an example of making pancakes and then through discussion of how computers operate. The understanding that human beings bring to a task is contrasted with this algorithmic processing. In the second section, the question of understanding is related to learning algorithmic performance, with counting used as the…

Research on the cognitive processes used by physicians during patient care (template matching, deductive logic starting with multiple hypotheses, and algorithmic logic) is examined for its applicability to optometrists and the problem-solving strategies used by optometric students in the classroom or clinic. (Author/MSE)

Shows by means of a mathematical example how algorithmic thinking and mathematical thinking complement each other. An algorithmic approach can lead to questions that deepen the understanding of mathematics material. (DDR)

Discusses the role connectionism plays in the development of cognitive theories and in the explanation of linguistic phenomena inherent in second language acquisition (SLA). Presents a critical look at some existing connectionist models of language functions with a focus on the need for a general cognitive model of SLA that integrates research in…

Compared and contrasted are the concepts intuition and logic. The ideas of conceptual thought and algorithmic thought are discussed in terms of the world as a labyrinth, intuition and time, and the structure of knowledge. (KR)

The uses of programable calculators in the mathematics classroom are presented. A discussion of the "microelectronics revolution" that has brought programable calculators into our society is also included. Pointed out is that the logical or mental processes used to program the programable calculator are identical to those used to program…