The intent of this project was to develop a course for mathematics graduate students at Iowa State University. They would design and write computer programs for use by undergraduate mathematics students, and then offer the course and actually produce the software. Phase plane graphics for ordinary differential equations was selected as the topic.…

This paper describes Topdown Conceptual Analysis (TCA) and how it can be used to produce the knowledge base for the development of courseware. Some of the prerequisites and basic theories behind TCA are explained. In discussing what is meant by learning and teaching a concept, an explanation is given of how a complex concept can be taught in terms…

Describes and analyzes a study of the influence of computers on pupils ages 12-14 in Spain. Four fields of action are defined: (1) research; (2) teacher training; (3) student and teacher activities; and (4) the development of teaching materials. An example of the curricular development of units for mathematics is included. (Contains 21…

Discusses conception, design, implementation, and evaluation of a calculus course that utilizes a multi-user microcomputer system with graphics terminals. The numerical and utility routines of the software are briefly described, and examples of several types of calculus problems that can be solved utilizing the system are reviewed. (Author/MBR)

The "PLATO[R] Math Expeditions" and "PLATO[R] Projects for the Real World" curricula are designed to implement effective, research-based instructional practices. "Math Expeditions" is designed to give elementary grade users the mathematics skills and practice needed to solve real-life problems. Across the eight…

Describes the hands-on learning approach and materials developed by TERC (formerly Technology Education Research Centers) for teaching science and mathematics to elementary and secondary students, including software for microcomputer-based labs, networked learning, and data analysis; teacher training workshops and curriculum development tools; and…

Discussion of differences in elementary and secondary school mathematics instruction between the United States and The Netherlands focuses on a Dutch project brought to the United States that uses print materials and software products. Topics addressed include integrating technology into the curriculum; cultural differences; designing assessment;…

Two issues of this listing (August and September 1990) contain reviews of courseware for kindergarten through grade 12. Entries are classified by subject or application: communication skills, which include instruction in reading and writing; mathematics; microcomputer programing; science; social studies; and utilities (desktop publishing…

Presents an alternative model for using the computer as an aid in teaching mathematics. Highlights include a mathematics teaching model; computer software for drill and practice, tutorials, simulation, games, and computer managed instruction; integrating computers into the mathematics curriculum; and examples of computer activities for…

Discusses how technology can fit into a middle school curriculum. Highlights include examples of curriculum development; the Higher Order Thinking Skills program for math; instilling excitement in students; family involvement; the mission statement of the National Middle Schools Association; and a sidebar on early childhood education and school…

A basic algebra unit was developed at Utah Valley State College to emphasize applications of mathematical concepts in the work world, using video and computer-generated graphics to integrate textual material. The course was implemented in three introductory algebra sections involving 80 students and taught algebraic concepts using such areas as…

This paper considers how the algebra curriculum in secondary mathematics might be reformulated by rethinking both the content of algebra and the approaches to teaching and learning algebraic concepts. It considers how the concept of function can be made a central theme of the algebra curriculum and further suggests that computer software, when…

Describes activities of the Educational Technology Center at Harvard University, which focus on the use of computers and other technology to improve K-12 instruction in science, mathematics, and computing. Topics discussed include curriculum development; students' prior conceptions; the construction of scientific knowledge; the use of software;…

Discussion of performance-based assessment in elementary and secondary schools in Kentucky focuses on the use of hypermedia as an effective alternative for assessing student learning. Curriculum activities are described for science, language arts, foreign language, mathematics, social studies, and physical education. (Contains seven references.)…

Suggests that intuition and visualization are effective methods of introducing engineering principles to pre-engineering students. Describes the development of computer simulation software as part of a "Pre-Engineering College On Disk" course. The computer game helps students visualize the relationship between shell trajectory and its…