Academic scholars face a difficult challenge when attempting to grasp the intricate world of mathematics. The complexity of mathematical concepts often lies hidden beneath layers of formulas and procedures, obscuring their true essence. Traditional educational resources often fall short in conveying the profound meaning behind these concepts,…

Presents an example of mathematics from an algorithmic point of view, with emphasis on the design and verification of this algorithm. The program involves finding roots for algebraic equations using the half-interval search algorithm. The program listing is included. (JN)

Two mathematical topics are interpreted from the viewpoints of traditional (performing algorithms) and contemporary (creating algorithms and thinking in terms of them for solving problems and developing theory) algorithmic mathematics. The two topics are Horner's method for evaluating polynomials and Gauss's method for solving systems of linear…

Suggests and illustrates ways in which systematic consideration of selected unary operations can be facilitated by using electronic calculators. Emphasis is placed upon unary operations suitable for exploration and investigation at the pre-algebra level, using calculation algorithms as a basis for generating examples and non-examples to develop…

Presents two methods for replacing a series by one converging more rapidly: regrouping the terms of a series and manipulations of power series. Describes a general algorithm for approximating the natural logarithm of any number. (YP)

Outlines various subtraction methods, such as the decomposition method, equal-addends method, and low-stress algorithm. Describes a subtraction method by addition of complements. Discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the method. (YP)

Explores the use of computers for teaching mathematical models of transposition ciphers. Illustrates the ideas, includes activities and extensions, provides a mathematical model and includes computer programs to implement these topics. (MVL)

Describes a prototype package that uses algorithms created within the symbolic algebra system Axiom, numerical routines from the NAG Libraries together with the easy-to-use facilities of modern graphical interfaces. Considers the implementation of different techniques, both symbolic and numeric, for the analysis and calculation of interpolating…

Describes eight increasingly sophisticated and efficient sorting algorithms including linear insertion, binary insertion, shellsort, bubble exchange, shakersort, quick sort, straight selection, and tree selection. Provides challenges for the reader and the student to program these efficiently. (JM)

Provides a short list of integral triples for the design of problems employing unit fractions (so solutions will be positive integers). Also presents an algorithm whereby both primary and imprimitive sets of triples can be easily obtained and shows how to extend the algorithm to solve three-variate unit fraction equations. (JN)

In spite of current sentiment to the contrary, the wellsprings of mathematics are not utility and relevance, but creativity, imagination, and an appreciation of the beauty of the subject. This has implications for the teaching of mathematics. (PK)

The concept of variable is central to mathematics teaching and learning in junior and senior high schools. Described is a structured reflexive exercise designed to reexamine the notion of variable and to rediscover its richness and multiplicity of meaning. (PK)