In this Research Commentary, the author explores what is meant by "teaching for understanding" and delves into these questions: How does teaching for understanding interact with the backgrounds of the students who experience it or the attributes of the contexts in which they learn? Which empirical findings are context dependent, and…

Presents a summary report of the Algebra Working Group's discussion subgroup on tertiary algebra at the Seventh International Conference on Mathematical Education held in Quebec City, Canada in August 1992. (MKR)

Described are computer program packages requiring little or no knowledge of computer programing for college algebra, calculus, and abstract algebra. Widely available computer algebra systems are listed. (MNS)

This paper discusses a pedagogical technique called the discovery approach in teaching remedial and college algebra. Examples of how to introduce and enhance some algebra topics using this approach in mathematics classrooms are illustrated. It is argued that student performance would improve if more topics were presented in a discovery fashion.…

Discusses the impact of computer algebra systems and evolving educational technologies on the mathematics curriculum, including fundamental assumptions, understandings that are needed, overarching priorities (acquiring and using knowledge), impact on students and parameters of instruction, and impact on faculty. (43 references) (MKR)

The complexity of the proof of the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra makes it inaccessible to lower level students. Described are more understandable attempts of proving the theorem and a historical account of Euler's efforts that relates the progression of the mathematical process used and indicates some of the pitfalls encountered. (MDH)

Attention is called to the apparent widespread misunderstanding of algebraic notation by secondary school students, and how this may arise from some common approaches to teaching algebra to beginners is discussed. (MNS)

This document argues that qualitative graphing is an effective introduction to mathematics as a construction for communication of ideas involving quantitative relationships. It is suggested that with little or no prior knowledge of Cartesian coordinates or analytic descriptions of graphs using equations students can successfully grasp concepts of…

Drawing from experience at Lansing Community College (LCC), this paper discusses how to best prepare students for success in a beginning algebra course. First, an overview is presented of LCC's developmental math sequence, which includes Basic Arithmetic (MTH 008), Pre-Algebra (MTH 009), Beginning Algebra (MTH 012), and Intermediate Algebra (MTH…

Reports 17 recommendations that focus primarily on curriculum in grades 11-13 for students who take a four-year college-preparatory program. Appropriate curricular patterns for students who are intending to pursue careers that depend on mathematics are indicated. (PK)

Presents examples of using the computer to enhance teaching function evaluation using BASIC, Riemann sums using MAPLE computer algebra systems, and linear programing using MATLAB. (YP)