Reports on a study of 70 secondary female students in mathematics classes over a period of 7 weeks. Finds that self-efficacy was the best predictor of learning intentions. Recommends further research on the relationships between perceived learning environment, self-efficacy, and learning intentions. (CFR)

Presents an interview with Dr. Constance Kamii on mathematics education. Based on her beliefs about the constructivist approach to elementary arithmetic, she advocates: reformulating goals and objectives, reconceptualizing the teacher role, de-emphasizing competition, eliminating workbooks, and relying instead on a curriculum made up predominately…

Presents an approach to geometry that integrates mathematics and language teaching. Suggests that mathematics is more than manipulation of numbers: it is a way of thinking about things. Argues that mathematics and language should be united especially to achieve the goal of promoting the development of analytical thinkers, as the ability to see…

Discusses how nonparametric statistical procedures can be applied to the scoring of cross-country running races. Asserts that this type of example in statistics is appropriate for the upper-secondary school and lower-division college levels. (MDH)

"Gedankensimulation" is a term adapted from Einstein's "thought experiments" to indicate mentally created simulations that can help conceptualize ideas. Presents seven examples of simulations that can be utilized to solve problems or illustrate concepts in probability and statistics. Problem contexts include games of chance,…

Discusses the use of computer visualization to motivate and support mathematical dialogues. Describes the "Scientific Visualization Software Suite," a set of public domain visualization tools from the National Center for Supercomputing Applications. (Author/MDH)

Presents the portion of a larger study of A-level British students understandings of calculus that deals with ambiguities inherent in the phrases "tends to,""approaches,""converges," and "limit." Responses to two questionnaires indicate that the four phrases generate everyday connotations that are at odds…

Presents a series of activities using data collection and interpretation techniques designed for levels 1-8, 1-5, 3-6, and 4-8 that integrate mathematics and social studies through the common theme of television viewing. Includes an activity sheet for parents to use with their children, three class-activity sheets, and a data sheet. (MDH)

Describes the Agam program, a 36-unit curriculum program to introduce students to basic visual concepts and that applies visual abilities and visual thinking to learning tasks. Describes two units at the third grade level, "Ratio and Proportion" and "Numerical Intuition," and makes observations of the students' learning. (MDH)

Describes the relationship between language concepts and the basic patterns of mathematical expressions. Suggests ways to improve the reading comprehension, writing ability, and reasoning skills of school and college students by integrating language topics into the mathematics curriculum. Discusses the use of language concepts in algebraic…

Discusses results from studies reported from 1958-86 examining the different methods of teaching calculus. Alternatives to lecture presentations to supplement and enhance learning include discovery and group learning, self-paced classes, programed materials, and use of computers. (over 50 references) (MDH)

Highlights combinatorial problems appropriate for students aged 4 to 12 years that utilize manipulatives in a hands-on approach. Examines and identifies students' strategies and self-monitoring techniques that produce effective problem solving. (MDH)

Divided into two parts, this article analyzes why some pupils feel reserve about instantaneous velocities and instantaneous flows. The second part relates reactions of pupils facing a problem that implicates the instantaneous rate of change. Describes some characteristics of this problem that enables the authors to explain its instructional…

Presents an alternative to traditional story-problem instruction in which students write their own mathematics stories about familiar situations involving problems that can be resolved with the aid of mathematics. Provides excerpts from a typical class discussion to resolve the problem. (16 references) (MDH)

Politicians and educators recommend significant improvements in scientific and mathematical competency so Americans can be more competitive in tomorrow's high-tech economy. The article outlines shortcomings of current change proposals and describes an alternative that integrates various kinds of knowing, including science and technology, into an…