Describes a computer-assisted scheduling algorithm for college courses and faculty. The method considers such issues as availability of lecturers, preferred times for courses, and time conflicts. Samples of the schedules are included. (JJD)

Considers three powerful techniques--heuristics, context trees, and search via backward chaining--that a knowledge engineer might employ to develop an expert system to automate performance engineering, i.e., the branch of instructional technology that focuses on the problems of business and industry. (MBR)

The article identifies five incorrect beliefs about mathematics often held by students who have difficulty with mathematics. They include: the relative size of numbers is more important than the relationships between quantities; computation problems must be solved by using a step-by-step algorithm; mathematics problems have only one correct…

This paper discusses computer simulation as a tool for teaching about phenomena characterized by a problem to be solved, a task or goal to be reached, a procedure to be learned, or an environment to be understood. Simulation is defined and characterized by an examination of both the attributes that are common to simulations, and a taxonomy…

A possible method of derivation of prescriptions for solving problems, found in Babylonian cuneiform texts, is presented. It is a kind of "geometric algebra" based mainly on one figure and the manipulation of or within various areas and segments. (MNS)

Describes an algorithm for course scheduling that can make the process much less time consuming for chairs and deans. Notes that long-term planning is possible because of the algorithm's two-year cycle. Notes that the algorithm can be programed easily by using a spreadsheet. (RS)

The "word problem" is stated for a given collection. Facts regarding Dehn's Algorithm, definition of Thue systems, a rewriting system, lemmas and corollaries are provided. The situation is examined where the monoid presented by a finite Thue system is a group. (DC)

Computer-adaptive testing (CAT) allows improved security, greater scoring accuracy, shorter testing periods, quicker availability of results, and reduced guessing and other undesirable test behavior. Simple approaches can be applied by the classroom teacher, or other content specialist, who possesses simple computer equipment and elementary…

Describes a five-step set of procedures for designing and developing instruction that promotes student-teacher interaction and teacher responsiveness. The steps described address instructional content, objectives, questions, boundaries, and entry behavior. (MBR)

A college course designed to teach students about the mathematics of symmetry using pieces of wallpaper and cloth designs is presented. Mathematical structures and the symmetry of graphic designs provide the starting point for instruction. (MP)

Reviews criticisms of the use of drill and practice programs in educational computing and describes potentials for its use in instruction. Topics discussed include guidelines for developing computer-based drill and practice; scripted training courseware; item format design; item bank design; and a performance-responsive algorithm for item…

A detailed analysis and computer-based solution to a puzzle addressing the arrangement of dominoes on a grid is presented. The problem is one used in a college-level data structures or algorithms course. The solution uses backtracking to generate all possible answers. Details of the use of backtracking and techniques for mapping abstract problems…

Examples are provided which demonstrate the use of the computer as an instructional aid for the algebra curriculum. While the basic content of an algebra course would remain intact, computer technology can enhance and expand methods of algebra instruction. (JN)

The factors which have a major impact on the success in producing effective readable text in both the content as well as to the way it is presented are outlined. A discussion of the objectives of the learner and the characteristics of the text that facilitate student learning is presented. (KR)

Reviews the different types of models that can be used in groundwater modeling. Discusses the flow and contaminant transport models in the saturated zone, flow and contaminant transport in variably saturated flow regime, vapor transport, biotransformation models, multiphase models, optimization algorithms, and potentials pitfalls of using these…