Argues that a position should be taken on which future research initiatives on learning and instruction will be most worthy if grounded in general systems theory and multiple research methods are employed. Presents an application of general systems theory to research on learning and instruction, including a system of research methods and…

Argues that basic components of discrete mathematics can be introduced to students through gradual elaboration of experiences with iconic spreadsheet-based simulations of concrete materials. Suggests that the study of homogeneous and heterogeneous patterns of manipulative spreadsheet templates allows for appreciation of the development of…

Presents a brief definition and examples of residue designs while sharing some of the algebraic thought that a student used to form generalizations about the patterns discovered during the investigations of residue designs. (ASK)

Presents selection criteria for teachers to use when reviewing video materials for classroom use. Provides an annotated bibliography. (ASK)

Details a study in which grade 9 females were assigned to either an all-female or mixed-sex algebra class. Findings indicate that the all-female intervention group demonstrated a greater gain in math scores between grades 8-11 than the nonintervention group. Contains 41 references. (DDR)

Presents activities on problem solving, mathematical induction, proof by induction, and use of the phrase "without loss of generality." Provides a computer application illustrating recursive and iterative functions using C language. (ASK)

A series of computer tutorials provide opportunities for education students in an elementary-mathematics-methods course to explore a topic in depth. Tutorials cover content discussed in class and offer classroom situations for student response and reflection. At the end of each tutorial, students have a choice of assignments to complete in…

Traditional and "progressive" methods of teaching mathematics were compared using high school students from two schools in England. Students at the traditional school (approximately 200 students) developed an inert knowledge they did not find useful in the real world. Those taught by more progressive methods (approximately 100 students)…

Describes how elementary teachers are integrating children's literature into content lessons. Describes three reasons for the use of picture books in content classrooms and describes specific ways that various books can be used in teaching a range of content area subjects. Lists resources for teachers, children's literature for specific content…

Presents an overview of the science/mathematics reform movement in elementary/secondary and higher education institutions, emphasizing the roles of interactive learning and technology. Describes a distance learning project at Florida Community College at Jacksonville where five faculty plus a learning theorist developed and taught two basic…

A longitudinal investigation of the ways policymakers and practitioners in California, Michigan, and South Carolina view curricular reform in elementary mathematics and literacy instruction shows the complexities involved in "updating" teachers' professional development. Curriculum standards and frameworks are no substitute for the…

Guidelines for implementing a problem-solving approach to teaching mathematics concepts and skills to students with mild disabilities include: establish connections to daily life; use visual presentations; use manipulatives; use peer-mediated instruction; provide models, cues, and prompts; teach self-management techniques and learning strategies;…

This article discusses ways to improve mathematics performance of students with learning disabilities through cognitive strategies instruction. Principles of a strategic classroom environment are explained, such as involving students in goalsetting and providing advance organizers. Three specific strategies for math instruction are described:…

Provides a conceptual framework that can be used by teachers to analyze student responses that incorporates learning technologies. Introduces an assessment task on exponential functions that illustrates how the rubric can be used to identify an individual's level of performance. (ASK)

This article presents authentic assessment and instruction strategies that can be interwoven to ensure that students receive learning opportunities that allow them to seek solutions in a manner most consistent with their specific background knowledge and learning styles. Two examples from a fifth-grade classroom are presented. (Contains…