Community colleges play an important role in the U.S. economy, providing access to higher education for low-income young people, a path to higher-earning employment for low-income workers, and a supply of well-trained employees for local industry. In order to remain competitive with other major economies, however, the U.S. must sharply increase…

The article looks at primitive counting techniques and suggests a systematic set of diagnostic activities for teaching young learning disabled children to count. (SBH)

The paper describes strategies for remediating mathematics difficulties (particularly the process of regrouping or "borrowing" in whole number subtraction) in children. Three interrelated aspects of the process (the meaning of subtraction, understanding of non-standard numerals, and the function of the subtraction algorithm), are considered. The…

An example is provided of remediation activities for learning disabled adolescents having a specific computation difficulty with place value and the subtraction with regrouping algorhythm. A seven-day remediation procedure, which may be used with the other basic operations, fades from the concrete to the symbolic mode. (CL)

Drawing from experiences at Ohio State University (OSU) with remedial college students and with 12th grade students without elementary algebra skills, this paper outlines a numerical approach to algebra instruction using handheld calculators. Introductory material discusses problems with traditional approaches to math education and outlines some…

This bibliography lists references related to diagnostic and prescriptive instruction in mathematics education. The references are given in alphabetical order, without annotation or categorization. (MNS)

Offers 10 specific suggestions for redefining the role of homework in mathematics instruction in order to teach students to see homework as a tool and an integral part of learning. (DMM)

Presents a sequence for mathematics lessons designed to facilitate students' competency in executing mathematical processes and to apply the processes to real-life situations. The sequence involves: conceptualization of the process, knowledge of terminology, knowledge of algorithms, and ability to recognize when the process is applicable to…

Describes a remedial approach which provides math and communications instruction for applied arts and technology students. Looks at the problems of lack of time and math anxiety. Provides examples of math problems that show "real life" applications of math skills. Recounts how the problems are used in the classroom. (AYC)

The need for remedial mathematics instruction is described, and the low esteem associated with teaching such courses is noted. A plea is made that support be increased. (MNS)

Identifies requisite math skills for a microeconomics course, offering samples of supply curves, demand curves, equilibrium prices, elasticity, and complex graph problems. Recommends developmental mathematics competencies, including problem solving, reasoning, connections, communication, number and operation sense, algebra, relationships,…

Reported are results of a study of a sample of 259 students at the University of Massachusetts who scored low on a math placement test and later took precalculus math classes. Several possible conclusions are presented to explain the test results. A significantly higher percentage (p<.05) of a remedial sample (compared to a non-remedial sample)…

A community college mathematics course is discussed in terms of type of student, content and goals. Particular attention is given to the role of the calculator in community college remedial mathematics courses. (MK)

Reported are some of the highlights of a panel discussion held at the Joint Annual Meeting of the Mathematical Association of America in January 1987. Discussed are precalculus courses, challenging better students, calculus workshops, courses with projects, career awareness, coop programs, remedial programs, recruitment, seminar courses, and…

Presents placement test results showing a lack of understanding of basic math concepts among entering college students. Explains the application of the learning cycle model in teaching abstract mathematical concepts and offers examples of the model's use. (DMM)