Learning environments for programming education need a comprehensive task set that guides students from basic programming concepts to complex challenges. For creating such a task set, it is beneficial to utilize the concept of a design space--a systematic mapping of design dimensions and choices along these dimensions. We propose an iterative…

Financial analysts generally create static formulas for the computation of NPV. When they do so, however, it is not readily apparent how sensitive the value of NPV is to changes in multiple interdependent and interrelated variables. It is the aim of this paper to analyze this variability by employing a dynamic, visually graphic presentation using…

One option for Extension professionals wishing to use free statistical software is to use online calculators, which are useful for common, simple analyses. A second option is to use a free computing environment capable of performing statistical analyses, like R-project. R-project is free, cross-platform, powerful, and respected, but may be…

Good learning experiences ask students to investigate and make sense of the world. While there are many ways to do this, K-12 curriculum has traditionally skewed toward reading and writing to interpret and express students' sense-making. But there is another way. Infographics represent data and ideas visually, in pictures, engaging more parts of…

Everyone is familiar with the concept that the cube and octahedron, dodecahedron and icosahedron are dual pairs, with the tetrahedron being self-dual. On the face of it, the concept seems straightforward; however, in all but the most symmetrical cases it is far from clear. By using the computer and three-dimensional graphics programs, it is…

Presents an instructional process designed to achieve educational objectives (comprehension, analysis, evaluation, synthesis, and application) in introductory computer programming and applications courses through student projects. The projects involve goals based on these objectives and integrate computational techniques, plotting displays, and…

Describes range of options and features in gradebook programs and reviews most popular and readily available software for organizing, calculating, and updating grades: Master Grades, EA Gradebook, Gradeaid, Grader, Graphic Gradebook, Classic Plus Gradekeeping System, Records, Gradecalc, Grade Master, Report Card, Electronic Gradebook for…

Discusses the use of computer-illustrated texts to teach statistics at the college level. Microcomputer-based software that can be used in the areas of calculation, graphics, simulation, animation, and text presentation is described; and use of the software for lectures, laboratory use, and tutorials is discussed. (three references) (LRW)

In this article, we present CTRL_SPACE: a design for a software environment with companion hardware, developed to introduce preliterate children to basic computational concepts by means of an animatronic face, whose individual features serve as an analogy for a programmable object. In addition to presenting the environment, this article briefly…

Describes mathematical problems which occur when using the computer as a calculator. Considers errors in BASIC calculation and the order of mathematical operations. Identifies errors in spreadsheet and calculator programs. Comments on sorting programs and provides a source for Mathemagical Black Holes. (MVL)

Notes the computer has progressed from being a fast calculating machine to becoming an important tool for the whole academic spectrum. Discusses the development of new courses being offered to develop skills and knowledge in computational physics. (Author/MVL)