This article uses a cognitive problem-solving model to explore the application of hypermedia authoring software to mathematics in general and to mathematical problem solving in particular. Hypermedia is presented as a method of exploring alternative solution processes to remediate or prevent learning problems. (JDD)

Proposes that a constructivist approach to learning helps overcome the beliefs that (1) some people cannot learn mathematics; and (2) the truth of mathematical propositions is absolute and predetermined. Describes the Ventures Program in which urban high school students exposed to constructivist learning environments have increased their…

Examined fifth-grade students' survey responses to investigate incorrect rules that derive from children's efforts to interpret decimals as integers or as fractions. Regarding fractions, difficulties arise because only the whole-part approach to fractions is presented in elementary school. (Author/MDH)

Integrates mathematics and science by investigating the scientific application of the Polynomial Difference Theorem using data points from an experiment. Utilizes the different capabilities of the graphing calculator to investigate a problem whose solution is a second degree equation and makes connections between the mathematical concepts involved…

Describes the development of a college mathematics course for liberal arts majors designed to engage students in the mathematical process of making conjectures, testing those conjectures, and communicating the results. Presents six specific learning objectives for the course. (MDH)

Compares the content of geometry and measurement appearing in first- through eighth-grade textbooks in the United States and the Republic of Korea. American textbooks devoted a greater number of pages to measurement and geometry content, introduced the content earlier, presented concepts and skills more independently of each other, and presented…

Describes a criterion-referenced format to nurture and assess secondary mathematics student teachers. The format intertwines areas of knowledge (mathematics, school mathematics, and teaching pedagogy) with the participants in the teacher education process (student teachers, supervising teachers, and university coordinators). Provides examples of…

Discusses factors that influence the shapes of houses built in different cultures. Poses the problem of building a house with optimal floor space given a fixed amount of material for the walls. Discusses students' findings, questions raised during group discussions, and mathematical concepts utilized to solve the problem. (MDH)

Reviews the radical constructivism movement in mathematics education. Benefits identified include learner ownership of mathematical learning; importance of social interaction; and identification of principles for improving mathematics teaching and learning. Weaknesses identified include overzealousness of some radical constructivists; downplaying…

Reports results of a four-year experiment integrating writing into secondary mathematics classrooms. Discusses (1) the development of a pedagogical model for mathematics journal keeping; and (2) the practicalities of implementing journal writing in the curriculum. Includes sample journal entries. (12 references) (MDH)

Presents two activities that utilize problem solving to promote concept development. The first uses a treasure hunt to teach locus of points. The second uses a tug-of-war model to teach mixture problems involving ratios. (MDH)

Describes three types of children's books for use in developing mathematical concepts. Discusses the characteristics of a good mathematical concept book, methods of incorporating reading into the mathematics class, and three examples of children's books. Includes a bibliography of 159 children's trade books selected for integration into…

A process for readying students to change from special education to regular mathematics classrooms was implemented and validated in a study involving 42 students with mild disabilities in experimental and control groups. Preparation appeared to enhance achievement while in special education, but not in the regular class. (SLD)

Proposes methods to teach the more difficult concepts of linear algebra. Examines features of the Linear Algebra Curriculum Study Group Core Syllabus, and presents problems from the core syllabus that utilize the mathematical process skills of making conjectures, proving the results, and communicating the results to colleagues. Presents five…

Examines the potential of technology for an algebra curriculum. Provides examples of technology in use in examining families of functions, fitting a curve to a data set, and observing and analyzing patterns. Discusses exemplary software and calculators for the algebra curriculum. (MDH)