Use of end-of-chapter textbook problems for teaching and assessing concepts in introductory physics is widespread, as is restriction of student access to the solutions. Surveys student attitudes (n=128) on access to problem solutions, sampling the enrollment in a large calculus-level course. Results confirm a definite preference for freer access…

Collects and examines data on the attitudes of physics instructors towards allowing student access to textbook problem solutions. Student data (n=227) was collected by survey. Compares student and instructor attitudes and discusses the possible significance of the survey results. (Author/MVL)

This document consists of three modules concerned with aspects of statistics. The first provides knowledge of the effect of imperfect correlation and random error on differences between means, and the reasons for the necessity of random allocation of objects to experimental and control conditions in scientific experimentation. The second unit…

The emphasis is on so-called "best solution" problems to questions that frequently arise in practical situations, such as finding an answer for the least amount of time, greatest volume, least amount of work, maximum profit, and minimum cost. One of this module's purposes is to help users become acquainted with the types of calculations necessary…

This document contains two units that examine integral transforms and series expansions. In the first module, the user is expected to learn how to use the unified method presented to obtain Laplace transforms, Fourier transforms, complex Fourier series, real Fourier series, and half-range sine series for given piecewise continuous functions. In…

This document contains three modules. The first of these examines applications of algebra to geometry. It is designed to teach students how to algebraically characterize points which may be constructed with a compass and straight edge, and how to use this characterization to obtain classical geometric nonconstructibility results. The second unit…

The document notes that in health and medical research the need to compare rates or proportions for some event can often occur. It is the module's goal to illustrate the conditions necessary for recognizing potentially misleading situations, and to show how to cope statistically with such situations. The four sections show: 1) when to adjust…

A group is viewed to be one of the simplest and most interesting algebraic structures. The theory of groups has been applied to many branches of mathematics as well as to crystallography, coding theory, quantum mechanics, and the physics of elementary particles. This material is designed to help the user: 1) understand what groups are and why they…

Examines the attitudes of physics instructors on how and when students should be allowed access to textbook problem solutions. Presents a detailed analysis of 249 survey responses from U.S. and Canadian universities which conveyed a wide range of opinions and comments. Discusses the need to rethink strategies regarding access to solutions. (AIM)

This module considers ordinary linear differential equations with constant coefficients. The "complex method" used to find solutions is discussed, with numerous examples. The unit includes both problem sets and an exam, with answers provided for both. (MP)

This document consists of five units which all view applications of mathematics to American politics. The first three view calculus applications, the last two deal with applications of algebra. The first module is geared to teach a student how to: 1) compute estimates of the value of the parameters in negative exponential models; and draw…

One of the great strengths of mathematics is viewed as the fact that apparently diverse real-world questions translate into that same mathematical question. It is felt that studying a mathematical problem can often bring about a tool of surprisingly diverse usability. The module is geared to help users know how to use graph theory to model simple…

This unit considers the application of calculus in determining price discrimination and consumer surplus in a competitive market. Producer surplus and two-tier price discrimination are also developed in problems. It is noted that calculus cannot usually provide numerical answers for practical economic problems. The importance of calculus…

Vector analysis is viewed to play a key role in many branches of engineering and the physical sciences. This unit is geared towards deriving identities and establishing "machinery" to make derivations a routine task. It is noted that the module is not an applications unit, but has as its primary objective the goal of providing science,…

These modules view aspects of computer use in the problem-solving process, and introduce techniques and ideas that are applicable to other modes of problem solving. The first unit looks at algorithms, flowchart language, and problem-solving steps that apply this knowledge. The second unit describes ways in which computer iteration may be used…