Business students taking business analytics courses that have significant predictive modeling components, such as marketing research, data mining, forecasting, and advanced financial modeling, are introduced to nonlinear regression using application software that is a "black box" to the students. Thus, although correct models are…

The study documents the extent to which high school teachers reflect on their need to revise and extend their mathematical and practicing knowledge. In this context, teachers worked on a set of tasks as a part of an inquiring community that promoted the use of different computational tools in problem solving approaches. Results indicated that the…

We examine teachers' classroom activities with the spreadsheet, focusing especially on episodes marked by improvisation and uncertainty. The framework is based on Saxe's cultural approach to cognitive development. The study considers two teachers, one positively disposed towards classroom use of technology, and the other not, both of them…

Use of spreadsheets in a beginning algebra course was investigated mainly with regard to their potential to promote generalization of patterns. Less is known about their use in promoting understanding and learning of transformational activities. The overall purpose of this paper is to consider the conceptual aspects of learning a transformational…

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…

Describes two types of star charts commonly available for astronomical viewing and outlines a strategy by which teachers can have students use a computer spreadsheet to prepare their own easy-to-use star charts appropriate for the location, date, and time of viewing. (Author/MKR)

This article describes several examples of how teachers can use integrated software packages (programs that combine word processor, database, and spreadsheet applications) for classroom management and student activities. Examples of documents created with application programs, lists of software, and resources are included. (IAH)

Suggests that the availability and application of good software for microcomputers enhances college teaching methods. Argues that, in population geography classes, spreadsheet programs are especially useful; they are easy to learn and are well suited for manipulating numbers representing demographic variables. Gives a sample template and macro for…

Describes learning activities in which fifth and sixth graders used spreadsheets to explore the shapes of numbers. Discusses creating spatial patterns with a computer draw program; examining number patterns in a spreadsheet; comparing square and rectangular numbers; and creating the multiplication times table. (AEF)

The National Council of Teachers of Mathematics has stated that computer technology is an important factor in the improvement of mathematics instruction and an important tool in mathematics instruction. Computer spreadsheets are readily adaptable for problem solving, can enhance the user's insight into the development and use of algorithms and…

Describes spreadsheet activities that illustrate a problem-solving approach to teaching statistical concepts, allowing students to explore properties underlying descriptive statistics before being introduced to computational rules. (MKR)

Describes a science project at Booker T. Washington Middle School #54 (New York City) where seventh and eighth graders computed the Hudson River's water quality using ClarisWorks spreadsheets and MicroWorlds software. Students gained technology skills and public recognition, as well as scientific and environmental information. Includes sample…

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…

Examines the use of spreadsheets for solving equations by the method of iterations. The combination of the spreadsheets and graphical representation is shown to be appropriate both for teaching and learning the method of iterations and for investigating properties of equations. (Author)

Describes examples of student-centered activities for exploring mathematical induction using BASIC programs or spreadsheets. Discusses the advantages of using this medium to teach the concept and provides computer programs for the activities. (MDH)