Cryptography is the science that renders data unintelligible to prevent its unauthorized disclosure or modification. Presents an application of matrices used in linear transformations to illustrate a cryptographic system. An example is provided. (17 references) (MDH)

Some innovative and effective curricula and methods for teaching college mathematics include a Harvard University (Massachusetts) program pairing first-year mathematics doctoral students with experienced teacher-coaches; a University of Chicago (Illinois) doctoral student teacher apprentice program; and a University of Illinois at Bloomington…

The Monte Carlo procedure of generating random points that lie within the unit square is used to approximate pi, as the ratio of points within the first quadrant of the unit circle to the total number of randomly generated points. A BASIC computer program for this method is included. (JJK)

Recommendations are made for introduction into mathematics undergraduate degree program of a course that focuses on issues relating to the cultural perspective of the discipline and for the allowance of more time and formal analysis about the history and philosophy underlying the topics examined within all mathematics courses. A list of 15…

Examined is the extent to which the current trend favoring full integration of LOGO into the mathematics curriculum responds to the current extensions of the LOGO environment, beyond its original applications within the authentic mathematics curriculum, proceeding into the domains of visual arts, physics, and composition, for example. (JJK)

Described is a recursive LOGO method for dissecting polygons into congruent parts (rep tiles) similar to the original polygon, thereby producing unexpected patterns. A list of descriptions for such dissections is included along with suggestions for modifications that allow extended student explorations into tile patterns. (JJK)

Study identified types of software applications and computer-assisted instruction (CAI) software chosen over three years by secondary mathematics teachers enrolled in a graduate level computers-in-education course. Subjects learned four relevant general computer applications and various CAI programs. They unanimously rejected drill and practice…

Outlines a reading program at Butcher Children's School in Emporia, Kansas, that allows the teacher to create a literate environment in which beginning readers develop their abilities, meet district goals, and develop a lifelong love of reading. Asserts that flexibility and the integration of subject matter are important factors. (PRA)

Children's responses to an alternative model over three lessons were described and their learning assessed in a posttest. Their responses and performances were compared to that of a similar group of children learning through a conventional number line model. The two models were compared from practical and theoretical viewpoints. (Author/CW)

An application of critical cultural and ideological technology is reported in the field of mathematics education. A step-by-step method is set out and applied to a particular classroom problem. (CW)

Problem-solving strategies which use reflective thinking and inference in mathematics are discussed. Examples are provided with discussions of the learning process. The advantages of this approach are stressed. (CW)

Three studies involving tutoring of elementary children are reported. The first demonstrated that eight parents utilized oral reading tutoring procedures successfully after training. The other two found that home tutoring improved math and spelling performance of four children both during tutoring sessions and subsequently in school. (Author/JDD)

Describes the use of a working conference to train teachers and education students to use the computer in mathematics education. Group work is discussed that focuses on two main components of the conference--software evaluation and lesson creation; and adaptations for Eastern European schools with few computer resources are described. (Contains…

Uses Derive as an instructional tool to investigate asymptotic behavior of rational functions. Activities focus on reducing manipulation and computation and on generating multiple examples to focus on discovery of the concept rather than a summary of rules. (MLN)

Presents calendars for the months of May, June, July, and August that contain problems and projects to be done for almost every day of the month. Provides instructions on how parents can utilize the calendars. (MDH)