This experiment investigates the effectiveness of Excel spreadsheets in a high school algebra class. Students in the experiment group convincingly outperformed the control group on a post lesson assessment. The student responses, teacher observations involving Excel spreadsheet revealed that it operated as a mindtool, which formed the users'…

In late October 1967, the USS Scorpion was lost at sea, somewhere between the Azores and Norfolk Virginia. Dr. Craven of the U.S. Navy's Special Projects Division is credited with using Bayesian Search Theory to locate the submarine. Bayesian Search Theory is a straightforward and interesting application of Bayes' theorem which involves searching…

This paper offers a tutoring model its objective is to develop and establish the pedagogical-disciplinary knowledge of prospective computer science teachers with respect to guiding learners in problem-solving processes. The paper presents the tutoring model and the research that accompanied its implementation. The research findings indicate that…

Reports on the results of a project that involved experienced K-12 teachers in mathematical modeling, using variables and functions in a fundamental and intuitive context, while investigating the appropriateness of spreadsheet solution methods across a broad range of grade levels. (14 references) (LZ)

Details are provided of computer-simulated experiments developed by the co-directors of the Learning Research and Development Center (LRDC), University of Pittsburgh. The initial materials were designed to help students learn physics. New materials are being developed along similar lines for elementary mathematics. The views of the creators are…

Describes the approach used in a doctoral seminar on designing instructional software for problem solving in mathematics. Explains how a five stage software development model was followed for producing materials. Includes student evaluations of the course. (ML)