Objective/Research Question: Community college graduation rates are typically quite low, and developmental mathematics enrollment and coursetaking patterns may constrain academic outcomes. To identify ways in which community college graduation rates may be improved, decision trees were utilized to examine the STEM coursetaking patterns of N =…

Accurate placement into an initial college mathematics course is a key step toward the successful completion of college mathematics and, eventually, a college degree. Conversely, misplacement in mathematics may lead to a reduced likelihood of course completion and degree attainment. This study investigated the ability of two placement models to…

Linear ciphers, substitution ciphers, public-key cryptosystems, and trapdoor knapsacks are each discussed. (MNS)

The problem of getting a correct result when a fraction is reduced by cancelling a digit which appears in both the numerator and the denominator is extended from the base ten situation to any number base. (DT)

A few examples are discussed of situations where some solution to writing a computer program for an algorithmic problem is immediately evident, but the best solution is some distance away. (MP)

Provides an algorithm for determining the median and quartiles of discrete data sets. Describes the graphical equivalent of the numerical method. (JM)

The general algorithm used in most hand calculators to approximate elementary functions is discussed. Comments on tabular function values and on computer function evaluation are given first; then the CORDIC (Coordinate Rotation Digital Computer) scheme is described. (MNS)

Described are ways that errors of magnitude can be unwittingly caused when using various supercalculator algorithms to solve linear systems of equations that are represented by nearly singular matrices. Precautionary measures for the unwary student are included. (JJK)

A comparison of four methods of finding the maturity value of the principal is presented. The four methods are: table, period-by-period iterative calculation, formula, and Binomial Theorem. (MP)

The calculator is used to solve certain formidable equations, which arise naturally and which may be difficult or impossible to solve by standard methods, by a method of successive approximations. (MP)