Developing students' competence in algorithmic thinking is emerging as an objective of mathematics education, but despite its inclusion in mathematics curricula around the world, research into students' algorithmic thinking seems to be falling behind in this curriculum reform. The aim of this study was to investigate how the mathematical modelling…

Growth functions involved in mathematical models for biological development are discussed using the algebra of polynomials and matrices. (SD)

The teacher's guide for the second unit of this SMSG series covers the two chapters in Unit 2 of the student text on algorithms and flow charts and on problem formulation. The overall purpose for each of the chapters is described, the prerequisite knowledge needed by students is specified, the mathematical development of each chapter is detailed,…

This is the second unit in a series of 14 SMSG texts designed to cover mathematical concepts which the general population should know. One chapter of the unit discusses algorithms, flow charts, and computers; the second chapter tackles problem formulation procedures (not actual problem solving) and briefly covers mathematical models. For a special…

This thesis addresses problems from two areas of theoretical computer science. The first area is that of computational learning theory, which is the study of the phenomenon of concept learning using formal mathematical models. The goal of computational learning theory is to investigate learning in a rigorous manner through the use of techniques…

The cognitive method, an algorithmic method for transforming verbal word problems into equations, equation systems, inequalities, etc., is presented and discussed. The psychological and mathematical aspects of the cognitive method are also reviewed. (MP)

Student weaknesses on problem-solving portions of the NAEP mathematics assessment are discussed using Polya's heuristics as a framework. Recommendations for classroom instruction are discussed. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Interpretation).

The so-called discrete approach in calculus instruction involves introducing topics from the calculus of finite differences and finite sums, both for motivation and as useful tools for applications of the calculus. In particular, it provides an ideal setting in which to incorporate computers into calculus courses. This approach has been…

This yearbook provides the mathematics education community with specific perceptions about discrete mathematics concerning its importance, its composition at various grade levels, and ideas about how to teach it. Many practical suggestions with respect to the implementation of a discrete mathematics school program are included. A unifying thread…

One aim of this report is to show and emphasize that in the computational approaches to most of today's pressing and challenging scientific and technological problems, the mathematical aspects cannot and should not be considered in isolation. Following an introductory chapter, chapter 2 discusses a number of typical problems leading to…

This paper is designed to provide teachers with more guidance on how to help students become proficient in the recall of basic number facts. Activities and practices are placed in a sequence designed to aid all instructors. The learning of number facts is divided into three stages: (1) the development of basic number facts; (2) establishing number…