It is suggested that the reasons for teaching the standard written algorithms for calculations are not out of date. Alternative algorithms, such as mental algorithms, calculators, and nonstandard written methods, are discussed. (MP)

Three types of arithmetic algorithms are discussed and compared. These are algorithms designed to get the right answer, computer algorithms, and algorithms designed to get the right answer and understand why. (MP)

Examines through a series of mathematical models (theorems, descriptions, and examples), properties and operations on inverted files, which are used in an information retrieval system based on thesaurus with weighted descriptors. (CWM)

The role of the computer in coordinating the activities surrounding five modes of mathematics instruction is discussed. The modes are: computer-assisted instruction, computer-managed instruction, computer-based simulations, algorithmic exercise solving, and computer-aided problem solving. (MP)

Research on automated scoring is extended by comparing alternative automated systems for scoring a computer simulation of physicians' patient management skills. A regression-based system is more highly correlated with experts' evaluations than a system that uses complex rules to map performances into score levels, but both approaches are feasible.…

Discussion of electronic news delivery systems and the automatic generation of electronic editions focuses on the association of related items of different media type, specifically photos and stories. The goal is to be able to determine to what degree any two news items refer to the same news event. (Author/LRW)

Explains a proposed block of instruction that would give students in industrial engineering, operations research, systems engineering, and applied mathematics the basic understanding required to begin more advanced courses in simulation theory or applications. (DDR)

Describes an intelligent Web-based construction project management system called VHBuild.com which integrates project management, knowledge management, and artificial intelligence technologies. Highlights include an information flow model; time-cost optimization based on genetic algorithms; rule-based drawing interpretation; and a case-based…

Describes a pilot project for MATLAB work in both information communication technology (ICT) and mathematics. The ICT work is on flowcharts and algorithms and discusses ways of communicating with computers. Mathematics lessons involve early algebraic ideas of variables representing numbers. Presents an activity involving number sequences. (KHR)

Describes how open-ended writing prompts provide a window into student understanding and mathematical thinking. (YDS)

Research on the cognitive processes used by physicians during patient care (template matching, deductive logic starting with multiple hypotheses, and algorithmic logic) is examined for its applicability to optometrists and the problem-solving strategies used by optometric students in the classroom or clinic. (Author/MSE)

This article develops an algorithm to find all solutions to the problem, making all sums of a hexagram's nine lines the same. It shows how to exploit the geometric structure of the hexagram and its group of automorphisms. (YP)

Discusses how to express an n factorial as a product of powers of primes. Provides two examples and answers. Presents four related suggestions. (YP)

Shows a series of Euclidean equations using the Euclidean algorithm to get the greatest common divisor of two integers. Describes the use of the equations to generate a series of circles. Discusses computer generation of Euclidean circles and provides a BASIC program. (YP)

A method of item factor analysis is described, which is based on Thurstone's multiple-factor model and implemented by marginal maximum likelihood estimation and the EM algorithm. Also assessed are the statistical significance of successive factors added to the model, provisions for guessing and omitted items, and Bayes constraints. (TJH)