Contends that institutionalized Eurocentric curricula constantly reinforce racial and sexual inferiority complexes among people of color and women. Calls for the incorporation of world mathematical and scientific history and knowledge in the curriculum. Describes a radical pedagogy encouraging minority students to feel positive and self-assured…

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)

Presents a program for the Apple II computer that teachers can use for exam questions and homework assignments. Prints out all cubic polynomials whose roots, maximum and minimum points, and points of inflection are all integers. (MVL)

An algebra class at Navajo Community College (Shiprock, New Mexico) uses traditional algebra topics to study real-life situations, focuses on environmental issues, encourages collaborative learning, uses modern technology, and promotes development of critical thinking and decision-making skills. Students follow principles of Dine educational…

"Gedankensimulation" is a term adapted from Einstein's "thought experiments" to indicate mentally created simulations that can help conceptualize ideas. Presents seven examples of simulations that can be utilized to solve problems or illustrate concepts in probability and statistics. Problem contexts include games of chance,…

Discussed is the importance of students being able to read and understand mathematics. The need for students to practice reading mathematics is emphasized. Discussions and homework are presented as examples of this needed practice. (KR)

A study of Canadian college mathematics faculty compared 55 men and 55 women teachers on social background, family status, education, careers, professional difficulties related to sex, and attitudes toward employment equity programs. More similarities than differences were found. Differences were noted in 10 areas of demographics and professional…

A postal survey was conducted regarding statistical techniques, research methods and software used in the workplace by 913 graduates with PhD and Masters degrees in the biological sciences, psychology, business, economics, and statistics. The study identified gaps between topics and techniques learned at university and those used in the workplace,…

A project was conducted at American River College, in California, to develop and apply a transfer eligibility measure as a companion to the college's transfer rate. The transfer eligible rate is calculated by dividing the number of transfer directed students by those who are transfer eligible. In the original model, transfer directed students were…

Two cases are described in which alternative assessments have been successfully employed in college mathematics. Case 1 describes an alternative assessment applied in a class of 10 elementary school teachers studying Euclidean geometry as required by state teacher-certification requirements. One student asserted that he already had an adequate…

In the past 5 years, the Mathematics Department at Saint Louis Community College (SLCC) in Meramec, Missouri, has made major curricular modifications and changed the role of faculty members in helping students succeed. These changes have been made in an effort to bring the curriculum in line with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics'…

Anxiety toward mathematics is a persistent barrier to successful completion of a college degree for women and minorities. This program adapted materials and philosophies from other programs to meet the needs of students identified as impaired by mathematics anxiety in their pursuit of a college education. The program addresses both influencing…

In 1989, the Mathematics, Engineering, and Science Achievement (MESA)/Minority Engineering Program (MEP) was initiated at American River College. The MESA/MEP program recruits Black, Hispanic, and Native American students and provides assistance, encouragement, and enrichment programs to help them succeed in the fields of mathematics, engineering,…

Responding to a request by the United States Senate, this report examines the patterns of distribution of federal research funds to universities and colleges. These distribution patterns were determined by institution, state, agency, and field of science. In addition, the document provides an analysis of the extent to which patterns of…

The relative participation of high ability male and female college students as natural science majors and attrition of these students from the sciences to other majors were studied at a highly selective, comprehensive research university. Of concern were the following major fields: biology, microbiology, biophysics, premedicine, astronomy,…