Discusses a numerical technique called the method of adjoints, turning a linear two-point boundary value problem into an initial value problem. Described are steps for using the method in linear or nonlinear systems. Applies the technique to solve a simple pendulum problem. Lists 15 references. (YP)

Explores the relationship between mathematical concepts and the circumstances of learning as they relate to within-individual variation. Analyzes previous results on mathematical concepts in and out of school in terms of their similarities and differences. (RJC)

Expected value judgments of 5- through 10-year-olds were studied by having children view roulette-type games and make judgments of how happy a puppet playing the game would be. Even the youngest children showed some understanding of probability dependence, with children under eight using an additive integration rule and children eight and older…

Describes four teaching activities to help children extend math problem-solving skills by using their own questions. Activities involve using a chart and symbols to develop equations adding up to 12, going on an imaginary shopping trip, using shapes to represent dollar amounts, using the date on a penny to engage in various mathematical…

Discusses recent research findings, which do not appear to support the idea that boys' superiority in mathematics is biological. Cerebral lateralization studies are discussed; meta-analysis showed that the gender gap has narrowed, casting doubt on the importance of innate ability determining mathematics performance. Discusses implications of…

Identifies requisite math skills for a microeconomics course, offering samples of supply curves, demand curves, equilibrium prices, elasticity, and complex graph problems. Recommends developmental mathematics competencies, including problem solving, reasoning, connections, communication, number and operation sense, algebra, relationships,…

Discusses the relationship between areas of learning skills and metacognitive monitoring processes by focusing on mathematics. Examines the success level in standardized mathematical testing and awareness regarding control processes during the test execution of third grade (N=397) and fourth grade (N=394) children. Concludes that numerical and…

University students' answers to a "Minds on Physics" problem revealed six distinct approaches to the solution. Discusses implications for teaching and assessment. (Author/WRM)

Describes the activity of numbering trees in which students number trees or find the numbered trees and observe other features according to class time. This activity aims to increase student tracking, mapping, and writing skills and integrate them with math skills. Suggests follow up activities that focus on reading, writing, and language skills.…

Asserts that findings on whether young infants look longer at incorrect addition and subtraction have been inconsistent or negative. Hypothesizes that imprecise ordinal calculating with very small numbers of objects develops in late infancy and that precise calculating develops in early childhood. (Author/KB)

The author's experiences with short-term interventions show that students with identified learning disabilities exhibit no problem-solving difficulties when problems are interesting and engaging. In fact, studies show that adolescents with suspected learning disabilities can match nondisabled students' performance on complex math problems.…

Investigates the types of problems students need to be able to solve in order to succeed in a technology-based age of information and the abilities and understanding that success requires. (Contains 16 references.) (Author/ASK)

This article argues that advanced mathematical thinking, usually conceived as thinking in advanced mathematics, might profitably be viewed as advanced thinking in mathematics (advanced mathematical-thinking). Hence, advanced mathematical-thinking can properly be viewed as potentially starting in elementary school. The definition of mathematical…

This paper describes the development of a procedure for investigating the ability of university students to employ their mathematical skills in a range of scientific contexts. This ability is called transfer. An instrument (consisting of a set of questions) to test transfer was designed jointly by three scientists and a mathematician and attempted…

Back in middle school Dr. Paquita Friday began helping keep books at her grandmother's pharmacy during inventory. It was no chore, she recalls. It was fun. By then, of course, she already knew she had a knack for numbers. Today Friday is gaining recognition for her research in accounting stock market disclosures and winning awards for her teaching…