Argues that the use of computer technologies in secondary schools should change the nature of mathematics education. Urges the rethinking of the uses of traditional paper-and-pencil computations. Suggests some computer applications for elementary algebra and for problem solving in arithmetic and calculus. (TW)

Confronts a widespread prejudice about mathematical knowledge, that mathematics is "culture-free," by demonstrating alternative constructions of Euclidean geometrical ideas developed from the culture of Mozambique. As well as establishing the educational power of these constructions, the article illustrates the methodology of…

Examined is the cultural impact--both actual and potential--of the computer on children's mathematical education. The ways in which the introduction of the computer does and will change the ambient space in which children learn mathematics is considered. (Author/PK)

Both industrialized and Third World countries see the need to "multi-culturalize" their mathematics curricula. Following a brief description of the drawing tradition of the Tchokwe people (Angola), some possible uses of their pictograms in the mathematics classroom are suggested. Examples given in this paper include the study of arithmetical…

Suggests that secondary school students seem to have reasonably good procedural knowledge in areas of mathematics as rational numbers, probability, measurement, and data organization and interpretation. It appears, however, that students are lacking the conceptual knowledge enabling them to successfully do the assessment items on applications,…

Sets forth the history of the Fibonacci Sequence and details its occurrence in nature and its potential for project work in schools. Ideas and activities include the rabbit problem, investigations of the sequence itself, its relationship to plants, music, snail shells, and the golden section. Computer generation of spirals is also discussed. (PK)

Identifies proportionality as a powerful problem solving tool that students can apply in familiar situations but cannot apply in unfamiliar contexts. Gives an operational definition of proportionality from examples in introductory chemistry. Provides examples of direct proportions and how to evaluate variables to teach proportional reasoning. (CW)

Describes an optional course in "computational physics" offered at the University of Birmingham. Includes an introduction to numerical methods and presents exercises involving fast-Fourier transforms, non-linear least-squares, Monte Carlo methods, and the three-body problem. Recommends adding laboratory work into the course in the…

Helping teachers envision how math standards can be integrated into the secondary classroom, this book presents engaging activities and ready-to-use lessons aligned with NCTM content and process standards. This user-friendly book by mathematics educator Timothy J. McNamara is filled with a generous collection of lessons for each of the ten NCTM…

New goals for mathematics education, including the need to teach mathematical processes, applications, and literacy to a broader array of students, are explored. Implications for teachers and curriculum developers are discussed, and the need for applying mathematical problem solving to social needs is pointed out. (PP)

Applications of generalizations of both arithmetic and geometric progressions are presented. The first-order difference equation is used in solving seven examples from finance, business, and medicine. Detailed directions are included for each example. (KR)

Presented is an educational game called "The Chaos Game" which produces complicated fractal images. Two basic computer programs are included. The production of fractal images by the Sierpinski gasket and the Chaos Game programs is discussed. (CW)

Describes two chemistry computer programs: (1) "Eureka: A Chemistry Problem Solver" (problem files may be written by the instructor, MS-DOS 2.0, IBM with 384K); and (2) "PC-File+" (database management, IBM with 416K and two floppy drives). (MVL)

Describes methods for teaching mechanics. Concepts included are force, inertial frames, and rotation. Emphasizes how to feel or observe them. (YP)

Explains graphing functions when using LOTUS 1-2-3. Provides examples and explains keystroke entries needed to make the graphs. Notes up to six functions can be displayed on the same set of axes. (MVL)