This article is written to share teaching ideas about using commonly available computer applications--a spreadsheet, "The Geometer's Sketchpad", and "Wolfram Alpha"--to explore three classic and historically significant problems from the probability theory. These ideas stem from the authors' work with prospective economists,…

In this brief article, the author instructs teachers on how to produce an interactive spreadsheet from scratch in about 20 minutes and en route equip themselves and their students, with handy "Excel" skills. The aim is to introduce the basics of "Excel," plus some fun bits, speedily and with a purpose; producing something that is useful in its own…

Presents ideas for using a spreadsheet to reinforce teaching of enumerative combinatories in the secondary mathematics classroom. (PR)

This issue of "TAP into Learning" focuses on technology-assisted learning activities for students, in particular on those that use spreadsheets. Articles include: "Using What Learners Know"; "Activity: Grade 7 and 8 Math, Social Studies and Language Arts"; "Managing Growth: Collaborative Decision-Making in Urban Planning"; "Spreadsheets"; "Getting…

Addresses some basic aspects of Archimedes' law. Focus is on potential energy relationships so as to elucidate some common misunderstandings and to facilitate making bridges with other physical topics. A spreadsheet model is used as a simulation tool. (Author/NB)

Explores the rationale for computer simulations, describes a developmental approach to learning spreadsheet applications, discusses dilemmas posed in teaching and learning through simulations, and presents conclusions about using simulation for teaching school-finance and business courses and for professional growth. (Five references) (LMI)

Describes two general spreadsheet templates to carry out all types of one-equation chemical equilibrium calculations encountered by students in undergraduate chemistry courses. Algorithms, templates, macros, and representative examples are presented to illustrate the approach. (PR)

Encourages using spreadsheets to teach college economics because of their capacity to depict economic models, strengthen logical ability, and manipulate large amounts of data. Lists spreadsheet packages that are available and offers detailed instruction through graphs on how to design and interpret spreadsheets for classroom use. (CH)

Described is a software package, "Trapeze," within which a routine called LinDis can be used. Discussed are teaching methods, the linear discriminant model and equations, the LinDis worksheet, and an example. The set up for this routine is included. (CW)

Described is how spreadsheet and problem solver microcomputer programs may assist students in performing mathematical calculations. Discussed is the application of the equation solver "MathCAD" to various areas in the undergraduate curriculum. (KR)

Illustrates how teachers or students can use spreadsheets. Shows the layouts, formulas, and data of two cases: budget manager and data manager. Seven references are listed. (YP)

Merging to e-mail is a process which can be used to help the instructor communicate with students. Two possible ways this process can be used in education are: to update students on their grades and to conduct research. This paper first discusses reasons for using e-mail in education and then goes on to describe how to create a merge to e-mail…

Explores some classic Fibonacci problems with the aid of AppleWorks spreadsheets calculations. Provides problems and spreadsheets for solving them. (Author/YP)

This training package, which is designed for use by tutors teaching basic skills in a variety of adult education settings throughout the United Kingdom, consists of four booklets. The first two booklets explain how to use Microsoft Works word processing and spreadsheet software. Each contains instructions for using the Microsoft products in MS DOS…

Defines raster technology in its relationship to geographic information systems and notes that it is typically used with the application of remote sensing techniques and scanning devices. Discusses the role of spreadsheets in a raster model, and describes a general approach based on spreadsheets. Includes six computer-generated illustrations. (MJP)