Failure rates in first year calculus courses are high in most post-secondary institutions across North America and other parts of the world. This Inukshuk-funded open education project involved the development of five stand-alone pre-calculus learning modules. The design and revision phases of this project occurred between the fall of 2007 and…

Described are some major developments in the history of ideas in which mathematics has played a central role. The discussion is organized around four key features of mathematics: certainty, applicability, more than one geometry, and opposition. (MNS)

In this published speech, the status of mathematics today is reviewed. Four areas are highlighted as examples of the unity and applicability of mathematical research. Problems with teaching mathematics are then noted, followed by "causes for celebration." (MNS)

Sophomore and junior students in the College of Engineering at Cornell University have been taught engineering mathematics using new computer software that performs exact symbolic algebraic and calculus operations. Describes this software, the computer-based mathematics laboratory, changes in the teaching/learning environment, and short- and…

Discusses the potential impact of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics on teacher education programs. Considers an historical perspective on reform as well as teacher and student conceptions. (PK)

Discusses cooperative problem solving among Open University physics and math students and describes three studies that investigated how to design effective computer-based support for collaborative learning in distance education. The value of peer interaction for learning and problem solving is discussed, and students' attitudes to group work are…