Don Ploger

Enhancing Children's Conceptual Understanding of Mathematics Through Chartworld Software

Abstract Two randomized control/treatment experiments tested the effectiveness of Chartworld software on enhancing mathematical knowledge of 3rd-graders. In Experiment 1, 196 children were randomly assigned to receive either Chartworld or textbook instruction on number operations. ANCOVAs indicated significant group differences in favor of Chartworld in the magnitude of posttest performance while controlling for pretested ability (p < .05). For Experiment 2, which covered divisibility and prime numbers, the results demonstrated signifcantly greater gains in conceptual knowledge for Chartworld (p < .001). These experiments provide corroborating evidence that Chartworld is an effective method of instructional delivery for conceptual knowledge.

Mathematics and Molecules: Exploring Connections via Programming

Abstract This article examines the self-directed activity of two students who learned about molecular structure by writing computer programs. The students wrote programs to display the solution of a mathematics problem and then extended their programs to represent several classes of organic molecules. In the course of this activity, the students learned the standard system for naming organic molecules while maintaining a sense of ownership of their project. We discuss ways to enhance the mathematical connections to chemistry education.