Approximately 30% of students entering West Virginia University (WVU) are not ready for college mathematics. The WVU Department of Mathematics has been tasked with remediating these students and has worked over the last decade to find the most efficient way to teach the Pre-College Algebra Workshop; the prerequisite course students must complete…

An online testing system developed for entry-skills testing of first-year university students in algebra and calculus is described. The system combines the open-source computer algebra system "Maxima" with computer scripts to parse student answers, which are entered using standard mathematical notation and conventions. The answers can…

This study attempted to determine the influence of prior knowledge in mathematics of students on learner-interface interactions in a learning-by-teaching intelligent tutoring system. One hundred thirty-nine high school students answered a pretest (i.e., the prior knowledge in mathematics) and a posttest. In between the pretest and posttest, they…

A mixed-method study was conducted during the Fall 2008 semester to better understand the experiences of students participating in computer-aided instruction of College Algebra using the software MyMathLab. The learning environment included a computer learning system for the majority of the instruction, a support system via focus groups (weekly…

The implementation of online texts, videos, homework, and tests has changed the process of instruction in introductory college mathematics courses. With this change, more of the students' learning takes place outside of the traditional college classroom and in places such as tutoring centers and dorm rooms. A combination of chi-square tests--for…

Over the past ten years, traditional lecture style delivery has given way to computer-aided instruction (CAI) in post-secondary education. Developmental mathematics courses have been one of the most widely used applications. At a small community college in the Mississippi Delta, a computer assisted version of Intermediate Algebra was implemented.…

Explains how a microcomputer-based algebra software system, muMATH, can be used to help students understand the theory of convergence of infinite series. Examples are given to illustrate nth term test, ratio test, comparison test, integral test, and Raabe's test. (10 references) (LRW)

A computer algebra system was integrated into instruction for two large classes of mathematics for business and the social sciences. Comparisons of student achievement and attitude showed no significant differences, but other implications of the study are discussed. (23 references) (LZ)

Four experiments involving 180 undergraduates evaluated the effectiveness of computer graphics in improving estimates for algebra word problems. Variations in the simulation resulted in successful and unsuccessful programs as measured by the frequency with which students improved their estimates. Quality of feedback to students while learning is…

Despite the effectiveness of computer-mediated instructional (CMI) materials, relatively little use is made of technology in mainstream college teaching. This article examines why CMI materials are not widely used; the mediated learning model that embeds CMI materials within a computer-mediated, communication-rich instructional environment; and…

A computer program generates sets of simultaneous linear equations for students to solve; the program also solves the systems and provides teachers with solutions. (SD)

A preservice teacher education course involving the applications for a computer within the mathematics classroom is described in terms of its evolution from a workshop to a regular curricular offering. Included are samples of computer experiments which suggest computer teaching activities for the prospective teacher lacking in field experience.…

Many colleges and universities have adopted e-learning platforms to utilize computers as an instructional tool in developmental (i.e., beginning and intermediate algebra) mathematics courses. An e-learning platform is a computer program used to enhance course instruction via computers and the Internet. Allegany College of Maryland is currently…

Symbolic Interactive Matrix Processing Language (SIMPLE) is a conversational matrix-oriented source language suited to a batch or a time-sharing environment. The two modes of operation of SIMPLE are conversational mode and programing mode. This program uses a TAURUS time-sharing system and cathode ray terminals or teletypes. SIMPLE performs all…

Describes a system of computer assisted instruction geared primarily toward high school and university students involved in numerical analysis and optimization. Also describes (in detail) one of its modules to illustrate the general philosophy of the system. This module focuses on the simplex method. (JN)