Pilots and evaluates a math activity initially utilizing M&Ms as manipulatives, then progressing to computer software math activities, in five early childhood classrooms. Concludes that there were no significant differences between learning tasks, monolingual students vs. bilingual students, and manipulative (hands-off) activities vs. computer…

Reviews tasks and techniques to help students develop an appropriate instrumental genesis for algebra and functions to prepare for calculus. Focuses on the potential of the calculator to connect enactive representations and theoretical calculus. Discusses strategies to help students experiment with symbolic concepts in calculus. (Contains 32…

Two resources to help students conduct research are the new CD-ROM versions of the Encarta Encyclopedia Deluxe 2000 (for strong readers, grades 5-8) and the Year 2000 Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia (for strong readers, grades 3 and up). By supplementing traditional text-based information with specialized features (e.g., virtual tours and video…

Presents results of experiments with the use of adaptable courseware. Discusses characteristics of educational software and influences on curricular implementation; adaptable educational software; applied adaptable courseware and related adaptation instruments; the research method; and experimental results. Concludes that adaptable courseware will…

Examines 16 high school computer textbooks used in Taiwan with an attempt to analyze the nature and the presentation styles of programming examples in them. Concludes that presentation of programming examples in most of the analyzed textbooks lacked a detailed explanation of some of the problem-solving steps. (Contains 26 references.) (Author/ASK)

Focuses on the use of in-class peer learning experiences in several typical Information Systems courses. Provides additional summaries of three semester-long learning projects in Structured Programming, Systems Design, and Database Design. (Contains 29 references.) (Author/ASK)

Presents guidelines for equipping physics labs with components from each of four technology-use categories: (1) computer interfacing; (2) modeling; (3) simulations; and (4) research-reference-presentation. Includes references to useful websites discussing educational technology. (WRM)

Describes an activity in which students use computers and techniques from Op Art to learn various geometric concepts. Allows them to see the distinct connection between art and mathematics from a personal perspective. Reinforces writing, speaking, and drawing skills while creating slide shows related to the project. (ASK)

A study involving 72 children (ages 4-8) investigated the effects of computerized presentation of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-Revised Form M that used two computer-based response formats. Results found no difference in performance when students responded using standard presentation--direct pointing, computer presentation--trackball, or…

Presents a model based on a bicycle metaphor for teaching problem solving and computer-mediated solutions, discusses its implications for education, and lists ten strategies applied using the model. Provides a unit plan on using spreadsheets to explore Australian convict history, outlining establishment, development, interpretation, and…

Maintains that computer software and Internet exploration introduce playful elements into learning. Discusses the implications of "edutainment," a technologically mediated learning/enjoyment combination of experiences. Suggests that school may no longer be the primary site for learning but that teachers may need to reevaluate their…

Explores the role of proof in mathematics education and provides justification for its importance in the curriculum. Discusses three applications of dynamic geometry software--heuristics, exploration, and visualization--as tools in the teaching of proof and as potential challenges to the importance of proof. (Author/MM)

Reports on a long-term teaching experiment carried out in the 9th and 10th grades of a scientific high school as part of a larger research project. Aims to clarify the role of a particular software, Cabri Geometry, in the teaching/learning process. Focuses on the social construction of knowledge. (Author/MM)

Describes the experimental intelligent computer algebra system STRAMS which can solve problems using a set of methods and techniques traditionally taught, learn new mathematical problem solving methods, and generate different kinds of explanations. Analyzes these features of STRAMS to give reasons for its potential applicability in building…

Describes a prototype package that uses algorithms created within the symbolic algebra system Axiom, numerical routines from the NAG Libraries together with the easy-to-use facilities of modern graphical interfaces. Considers the implementation of different techniques, both symbolic and numeric, for the analysis and calculation of interpolating…