The researchers conducted a microanalysis of two purposefully sampled sessions of a tutor working with a student with a learning disability (LD) engaging with multi-step equations with and without fractions. During the tutoring sessions, the student experienced quick, independent success on equations without fractions, but struggled considerably…

Despite the importance of computational estimation skill for the improvement of number sense, little research exists on preservice teachers' estimation skills and their view on estimation in the US context. This study examined the computational estimation skill of 58 preservice elementary teachers (PSTs) and its relationship to their views of the…

The purpose of this study was to investigate what common errors and misconceptions about fractions exist among Saudi Arabian college students. Moreover, the study aimed at investigating the possible explanations for the existence of such misconceptions among students. A researcher developed mathematical test aimed at identifying common errors…

It seems that calculators continue to be misunderstood as devices solely for calculation, although the likely contributions to learning mathematics with modern calculators arise from other characteristics. A four-part model to understand the educational significance of calculators underpins this paper. Each of the four components (representation,…

To help middle school students make better sense of decimals and fraction, the author and an eighth-grade math teacher worked on a 90-minute lesson that focused on representing repeating decimals as fractions. They embedded experimentations and explorations using technology and calculators to help promote students' intuitive and conceptual…

Discussed are the difficulties that entering college freshmen seem to have with mathematics, particularly with fractional forms. A success-oriented program is suggested in which all students are successful. To obtain this goal, a number of alternative routes are discussed such as presenting decimals before fractional forms and the use of the…

The role of common fractions in mathematics education and in applications is discussed in light of the increased importance of calculators and the metric system. (MP)

A straight forward process for working in fractions on any calculator is presented. The method involves converting a decimal back into a fraction in its lowest terms. (MN)

Presents three games using calculators, specifically Texas Instruments' Math Explorer, as an aid to teaching fractions and decimals. Briefly discusses the development by the Texas Education Agency of staff development modules for teachers to learn about calculators, mathematics, and the incorporation of calculators into the teaching of…

Several examples are given to show that the calculator can be a tool to enhance mathematical understanding. Expressing rational numbers (fractions) as decimals provides the content focus. (MNS)

This study of seventh graders investigated the use of the calculator in learning conversion algorithms among fractions, decimals, and percents. The calculator was successful with some topics but not with others. (MP)

The authors present a teaching module designed to allow students to convert fractions to decimals using any four function calculator, do the prime factorization of the denominator with the calculator, and find patterns formed by the denominators of the fractions that are terminating decimals. (MN)

An algorithm is provided for generating as many desired digits in the decimal representation of a rational number on a calculator. It may be used whenever the number of digits displayed on the calculator exceeds the number of digits in the denominator. (JT)

This discussion of cyclic patterns that appear in repeating decimals includes the use of the calculator in discovering the patterns. (MP)

The results of this study indicate no significant differences on two achievement tests and one aptitude test between calculator and non groups. Nevertheless, the investigator notes several advantages of using the calculator. (MK)