The study investigated types of errors made by learning disabled children by analyzing written responses to multiplication and division problems. Error classifications are discussed, and possible causes are suggested. The importance of thorough investigation of errors by teachers is stressed. (Author/DB)

Several examples of mathematical diagnosis using microcomputer software are presented, with possible future considerations suggested. Three limitations of the software are discussed. (MNS)

Diagnostic evaluation is a major way to help students overcome errors. How such evaluation can be done is discussed, with comments on what should be checked and recorded by the teacher. (MNS)

Four informal assessment techniques to detect student mistakes in math, increase motivation, and improve achievement include the following: building models and generating word problems, thinking aloud, building mathematical sentences, and making mathematical sentences to answer questions in word problems. (DB)

Difficulties experienced by algebra students are listed, with comments on what can be done and some implications for teaching. (MNS)

The need for teachers to be proficient in diagnosing pupil difficulty in mathematics is advocated. Some facets of student behavior to be observed by the teacher are noted, including reversals, lack of retention, and lack of differentiation. All are characteristics associated with dyslexia. Problems of dyslexic pupils are noted and some general…

Why students have difficulty with a proof (such as Cantor's) is discussed, with the focus on proof by contradiction. Methods may fail due to the difficulty of the concept and lack of understanding of how students are thinking. (MNS)

How computers have affected diagnosis in mathematics is discussed. A distinction is made between errors and mistakes, followed by consideration of computers as a diagnostic tool. The development of algorithms to diagnose errors and of models of student performance is described. (MNS)

Analysis of errors children make is modeled both with and without computers. Patterns of thinking are traced for a fifth grader, with the discussion focused on getting clues for remedial instruction by analyzing the dialog. (MNS)

Outlined are the weaknesses of traditional, norm-referenced tests which fail to help in making instructional decisions. Presented is a step-by-step series of operations for analyzing and categorizing arithmetic errors, for selecting corrective strategies, and for applying peer-referenced standards to judge the performance of special needs…

Discusses how student errors can be utilized to understand the nature of the conceptions that underlie students' mathematical activity. Looks at why errors are made in mathematics, how teachers and students perceive errors, and how to use errors in the classroom. (MDH)

This monograph provides an overview of computer-based assessment and error analysis in the instruction of elementary students with complex medical, learning, and/or behavioral problems. Information on generating and scoring tests using the microcomputer is offered, as are ideas for using computers in the analysis of mathematical strategies and…

This document was prepared to assist teachers in Virginia in three ways: (1) by assessing student achievement on the competencies adopted by the State Board of Education; (2) by diagnosing student errors in mathematics; and (3) by prescribing instructional activities designed to promote student mastery of skills assessed in the competency program.…