This book reports on the first wave of the Mosaic Project which investigates the effects of educational change and teaching practices in mathematics and science on student achievement. The Mosaic project was supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and featured two waves. The states that participated in the first wave were State Systemic…

Papers from the 22nd Annual Conference of the Mathematics Education Research Group of Australasia Incorporated include the following: (1) "Making Sense of Primary Mathematics" (Gillian M. Boulton-Lewis); (2) "Seeking a Rationale for Particular Classroom Tasks and Activity" (Peter Sullivan); (3) "Research in Mathematics…

Massively parallel programming languages, like StarLogo, provide a rich environment for introducing differential equations to students with an unsophisticated mathematical background. This paper describes the basic software for stimulating and monitoring various population dynamics. Simple differential equations that describe the observed dynamics…

Two activities that provide motivation for drill problem-solving work are described. Solutions to problems are associated with coded letter puzzles which provide instant feedback as well as motivational interest. (JP)

Values of games as teaching strategies are outlined. In the simulation described in this paper students assume certain roles, analyze information, and make decisions. This is an example of how gaming might be used in a problem solving situation in a high school or college classroom. (SM)

A case study in mathematics designed to illustrate how the computer may be instructed to solve complicated problems. The problem is to find the volume of a right truncated cone given the altitude and a half angle or the base radius. (RP)

Provides basic principles of teaching and learning which teachers should use. (SB)

Briefly presents research studies on efficacy of this method; discusses the teacher's role in inquiry; and provides guidelines for evaluation. A sample lesson plan on the Civil War concludes the article. (JB)

Develops a three sequence program through which elementary-grade children can follow the "picture to paragraph" structure to mastery of comprehension skills ranging from simple details to construction of a report in a content area. (MD)

What is meant by meaningful instruction is discussed in terms of interest and relevance, pseudo-real problems, unconscious reinforcement, stories for symbols, and mathematical mirrors. That mathematics must be talked about with and by children is emphasized. (MNS)

A nontraditional laboratory course for first-year medical students is described, consisting of two laboratory exercises adapted to the guided design strategy and a short research project. Student learning and attitudes were shown to improve, but curriculum preparation time was a major disadvantage. (MSE)

Using data and analyses gathered from multiple sources, this article discusses how students learn in reading, writing, and mathematics. A section on reading concentrates on methods and materials that motivate, a writing section concentrates on content, and a mathematics section discusses procedures for problem solving. A bibliography is included.…