There are two main claims in this article. First, that the classic pillars of engineering education, namely, traditional mathematics and differential equations, are merely a particular, if not old-fashioned, representation of a broader mathematical vision, which spans from Turing machine programming and symbolic productions sets to sub-symbolic…

Reviews some major tenets of the new math as it was originally intended and then examines what went wrong with the new math revolution. (MP)

Problems in modern math instruction for learning disabled students include language and vocabulary, a lack of appropriate emphasis on mastery, the use of set notation in the primary grades, inadequate teacher inservice education in modern math, and the elimination of parents as teaching partners. (CL)

The writer reminds readers that the polemics of reform frequently portray the realm of teaching and learning in more extreme terms than is really necessary. Likening calls for educational reform to scientific revolutions sparked by Kuhn, Darwin and Copernicus, that jettison completely the assumptions and premises of the theories they replace, Bond…

Presents a talk on the history of mathematics and mathematics education by comparing the new math era and the current era. Discusses the beliefs of anti-reformers and concerns at the college level. (ASK)

This paper provides a general overview of the forces that contributed to the rise and fall of the "new math" movement. It is noted that the movement developed as a response to certain problems in mathematics education; these problems remain to be solved. Some small-scale successes were achieved, from which we can learn. The answer to…

This paper asserts that the key to algebra reform is to integrate algebraic reasoning across all grades and all topics, to "algebrafy" school mathematics. The distinction is made between algebra "the institution" and algebra "the web of knowledge and skill," which is also clarified. Finally, suggestions are made as to how the educational community…

To assess the possibility of another round of curriculum reform in mathematics, the origin of U.S. curriculum reform in the 1950s, including the new math programs, are examined. It is not likely that new crash programs aimed at curriculum reform in mathematics education will be implemented nationwide in the 1980s. (RM)

A commentary on the state of mathematics in schools that discusses positive aspects, such as the United States' successes in International Mathematics Olympiad, as well as the much-publicized criticisms of modern mathematics. (MK)

Presents arguments for and against the viewpoint that the teaching of chemistry and of physics should fall in line with modern mathematics. Concludes that modern mathematics has been beneficial in some respects and harmful in others. (CS)

Presents four areas of advanced mathematical research (fuzzy set theory, subjective probability, search theory, and Voronoi diagrams) that are proposed for introduction into teacher education programs from an elementary, survey perspective without the intention of accomplishing formal mathematical research, thereby challenging teachers' beliefs…

The controversy over what should be included in the mathematics curriculum is analyzed. Positions of the National Advisory Committee on Mathematics Education (NACOME), the National Institute of Education (NIE), and the National Council of Supervisors of Mathematics (NCSM) are outlined. The NCSM list of basic mathematics skill areas is presented.…

The media has criticized the American education system for being slow to implement technology in schools. To remedy that perception, the federal government and private corporations have planned additional funding for technology. This paper reflects on previous attempts to change, such as "New Math" or the "Follow Through" post-Head Start program,…

Three basic causes for the general decline in mathematics achievement among high school graduates nationally are poor motivation to learn math, poor math curriculum, and poor or no mathematics instruction. Many Native Americans drop mathematics because of lack of challenging courses or interesting teachers in their high schools. Since American…

If a major objective of general education is to make children capable of understanding their worlds and of solving technical problems, then mathematics instruction must be provided for all children. However, historical analyses suggest that educators cannot expect great success in implementing this "mathematics for all" orientation in…