This study shows that using authentic contexts for learning differential equations in a differentiation-by-interest setting can enhance students' beliefs about the relevance of mathematics. The students in this study were studying advanced mathematics (wiskunde D) at upper secondary school in the Netherlands. These students are often not aware of…

Research demonstrates a disjuncture between the practices encouraged by teacher education programs and what teachers actually do in the classroom. It also informs us that the cognitive and social characteristics of individual teachers such as their attitudes, beliefs and knowledge contribute to their classroom practices. This qualitative study…

The recent introduction of statistics into the Brazilian curriculum has presented a multi-problematic situation for teacher professional development. Drawing on research in the areas of teacher development and statistical inquiry, we propose a Teacher Professional Development Cycle (TPDC) model. This paper focuses on two teachers who planned a…

Provides translations of educational literature which describe recent reforms in mathematics education in the Soviet Union. Though focused primarily on secondary school curricula, several articles include information on elementary mathematics education. (JDH)

Reviews research on block scheduling as related to the study of mathematics. Suggests issues for mathematics teachers to consider as they decide whether or how to improve such schedules. Discusses mathematics achievement under a block schedule. Contains 40 references. (ASK)

Presented are some concerns related to the diagnostic/prescriptive approach to teaching mathematics. The author supports the view that teachers need to become aware of reasons for making professional decisions and become reflective practitioners. (RH)

Presents four probability problems, their simulations, and analyses. The first illustrates a discrete situation for which it is possible to list the sample space. The second and third are continuous--the number of possible outcomes is infinite. The last is discrete with a surprising continuous extension question which leads to l/e. (JN)

Kanawha County Schools' replication of the Johns Hopkins Fast Paced Mathematics program has completed its first year of implementation. This program is an alternative that speeds up the rate of learning for mathematically gifted students to a pace that is consistent with their capabilities. The program served eighth grade students. The main…

A New York City project to help high school students from minority groups prepare for mathematics-based careers is described. Bridge Projects, field trips and seminars, a summer institute, and other interventions are discussed. (MNS)

The first nationwide effort of industry, education, and government to promote excellence in mathematics through a junior high school mathematics competition is described. The rationale for MATHCOUNTS, the organizational structure, the format, and mathematics content are described. Contains some sample items. (MNS)

This report is intended to give an indication of the variety of careers available to persons with interest and preparation in the mathematical sciences. Each part focuses on a particular class of professions, with necessary training as well as the character of the work and general conditions of employment described. Parts I through V deal with…

Described are procedures for multiplying matrices using Logo. Examples of computer programming are included. (RH)

Reports examples of the behaviors, including kinetic and vocal, used to facilitate problem-solving based on observations of four seventh-grade students. Discusses the use of the behaviors in problem-solving teaching. (YP)

Discussed is the meaning of the word "of" as is found in mathematical expressions that involve fractional numbers. The conceptual rather than numerical distinction is stressed. Teaching techniques regarding difficulties with this concept are suggested. (CW)

Efforts of schools and universities in Ohio to improve the articulation between their programs in mathematics are described. The focus is on a junior-year testing program in the schools and a project to develop an electric course in mathematics for underprepared college-intending seniors. (MNS)