| Papers [37-54] of 258 :: [Page 3 of 15] | | Go to page : <— 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 —> | |
|
|
The Relationship Between Board Games and Mathematics, 2006.
An analysis of the relationship between board games in adulthood and remembering feeling confident/able/successful in math classes as a child.
1,418 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 47.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This brief review of literature explores the integral connections between mathematics and board games so that the subject matter at hand will be fully understood. Extrapolations are then made as to why these connections may not necessarily mean that there is a connection between enjoyment of board games and math class success.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Literature Review
Methodology
Questionnaire
From the Paper
"According to Heather Jenkins (2004), the mathematical omnipresence in the world is undeniable. However, many people completely overlook the fact that "math forms the basis of many forms of entertainment (and perhaps addictions)." (Jenkins 2004) The very field of probability was born of games of chance which have been played for a very long time, when a dice player became curious about betting outcomes and consulted with the mathematicians Pascal and Fermat. Mathematics is not just an "academic" occurrence. Since the game of dice was played before the field of probability was born, even though probability is the mathematical drive behind the game, it can be extrapolated that an understanding or enjoyment of the study of mathematics itself is not necessary in order to enjoy and excel at activities which are based on math."
| |
|
Measurement of Angles, 2006.
This paper provides an analysis of why angles are measured in degrees, minutes and seconds.
885 words (approx. 3.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 31.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses the notion of the 24-hour period used in the day/night cycle. The writer explains that this cycle began in ancient Egypt, while the sixty divisions of degrees, minutes and seconds is derived from the number system based on sixty (sexagesimal) of the Mesopotamians. The writer examines this approach to dividing the day and night into like segments. Further, the writer looks at ancient peoples' observations about the motion of the sun and discusses how this ultimately results in the system that is used to measure angles today.
From the Paper
"Given its ancient origins, the reason angles are measured in degrees, minutes and seconds today has likewise been forgotten by many modern observers. In fact, the basis for this method was developed almost five thousand years ago in Sumeria based on their use of sundials to track time. In her book, Time's Pendulum: The Quest to Capture Time -- from Sundials to Atomic Clocks, Jo Ellen Barnett reports that the convention of the 24-hour period used in the day/night cycle began in ancient Egypt, while the sixty divisions of degrees, minutes and seconds is derived from the number system based on sixty (sexagesimal) of the Mesopotamians; because the Mesopotamians had not yet invented fractional numbers, they preferred whole numbers which could be divided in several different ways, and the number 60 can be evenly divided by 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 12, 15, 20, and 30."
| |
|
The Game Theory, 2006.
A comprehensive look at game theory, a separate and interdisciplinary approach to the study of human behavior.
1,915 words (approx. 7.7 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper takes a look at the game theory, founded by mathematician John von Neumann, and the mathematics, social and behavioral sciences that are involved. This paper also reviews the definition of a game and the fundamental decision theory, a crucial factor pertaining to the game theory.
From the Paper
"A game refers to a strategic situation that involves at least two rational and intelligent individuals called players. The fundamental result of decision theory, which forms the foundation of game theory as well, is that each player's goal is to maximize the expected value of his or her own payoff. These payoffs are measured on some utility scale, which is merely a numeric depiction of each outcome that can be gained through the player's actions. Individuals have preferences that give them the opportunity to rank the outcomes with respect to one other. For each pair of outcomes, a player can say whether he or she likes one better than the other or whether he or she is indifferent about the two.
The logical roots for game theory are in Bayesian decision theory. In fact, game theory can be seen as an extension of the decision theory (Myerson, 1991, p.5). In general, a decision theory is an interdisciplinary area of study for practitioners in mathematics, statistics, economics, philosophy, management and psychology. "
| |
|
Economic Model for Monopoly Analysis in Telecommunication, 2006.
An in-depth look at the various economic models prevalent within the telecommunications industry.
12,255 words (approx. 49.0 pages), 100 sources, MLA, $ 236.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper analyzes how the Telecommunications Act of 1996 sought to end the monopoly that once existed in the telecommunications industry. Since its adoption, the telecommunications industry has been undergoing a period of rapid change and development. The entry of new players into the market encouraged them to seek new ways to attract and keep customers. These changes have led to a rapid influx of new technology and services. Many times what defines a monopoly is not clear in every circumstance and there are many pending lawsuits for violations of Anti-trust laws in the courts today. Economic models are useful in resolving issues of whether a monopoly truly exists, or whether claims are unsubstantiated. Previous models were applicable only in certain situations. These models are unreliable in predicting monopolies outside the parameters for which they were designed. This research evaluates and analyzes economic models that could accurately predict the existence of a monopoly in the Telecommunications sector.
Introduction
Rationale for Study
Scope of Problem
Statement of Hypothesis and Research Questions
Literature Review
Methodology
Sample Population
Data Analysis
Findings
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The telecommunications industry is important and considered a vital part of our everyday lives. The telecommunications industry represents only a small portion of the country's Gross Domestic Product, only 1-2% (Stigiltz, 1998). While this amount may seem insignificant, the services that it provides are vital to every other sector in the economy. Telecommunications is the backbone of many other sectors.
The Telecommunications Act of 1996 is one of the most highly debated topics in economics. There are some that say that it has been ineffective and that we now have a monopoly again, as a result of mergers and acquisitions. There are others who say that it has had the intended result, but that the movement towards a competitive marketplace does not happen overnight. Poulson (1997) believes that achieving a fair market in Colorado will not be immediate and will take some time. There are others who believe that it is working in some cases and not working in others. Alaska is moving towards a more competitive marketplace on a local level. Rural communities often have a localized monopoly as there are not enough customers to attract competition (APUC, 1997).
Michael Porter states that "Paradoxically, the enduring competitive advantages in a global economy lie increasingly in local things - knowledge, relationships, and motivation that distant rivals cannot match (Porter, 1998). He is referring to what is known as clusters, which he defines as one place of unusual competitive success in particular fields. Examples of clusters can be found across industries and around the globe. Examples of clusters include Silicon Valley, Hollywood, the California Wine Valley and the Italian Leather Fashion sector.
Clusters can be characterized by the interconnected network of suppliers, service providers and producers who are geographically aligned and who have positive dependencies and cooperation with one another. Alfred Marshall's Principles of Economics points out that location based clusters that conduct specific types of business and economic activities form based on the sharing of "tacit" knowledge among business participants. (Krugman, 1991) The success of a cluster depends not only on what operating strategy firms employ, but also on the surrounding business environment. Clusters differ from the traditional definition of a monopoly in that competition and cooperation are vital to the success of the business. According to Porter, there are three overarching ways that clusters influence competition:
1.Productivity of companies is increased by the dynamics of a cluster.
2.Clusters tend to direct the pace of innovation through competition and cooperation.
3.Clusters actually support the growth of new business - each individual business can benefit from the scale of the cluster."
| |
|
Financial Derivatives, 2005.
This paper discusses two topics relating to financial derivatives: The Black-Scholes valuation formula and credit derivatives.
3,040 words (approx. 12.2 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 89.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that the Black-Scholes method is a very famous method for the valuation of an equity share and other variables related to the value of an equity share in the future months. The author points out that the key characteristics needed for the Black-Scholes formula are the price and price volatility of the underlying stock, coupled with the available rate of return on a risk free stock, under the assumption that trading in the concerned stock, along with the ability for exercise of the option, is continuous and unrestricted. The paper relates that credit derivatives are mechanisms for the credit institutions to separate the credit risk from their loans and treat market risk as a separate category so that their pricing efficiency could be more competitive and the concerned organizations could be more competitive in the market.
From the Paper
"One can even buy securities at low prices on a forward basis. Generally, these are used in a manner similar to bonds which have a benchmark of comparable maturity. Thus, a bank may buy from an investor an option on the credit spread of a BBB-rated corporate bond which has a maturity after 5 years. For this, a premium will have to be paid. At the same time, the bank will have the right to sell the bond to the investor at a certain strike price. This strike price is in terms of a difference with treasury notes, and if the actual spread on the date of maturity of the deal, is more than the strike rate specified, then the option will not be used. If the actual difference is higher, then the bond may be purchased."
| |
|
Statistics Anxiety, 2006.
An analysis of the imapct of statistics anxiety on graduate students.
1,200 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 43 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper studies how graduate students perceive the study of statistics and the impact that their anxiety about the subject matter has on their overall performance. The paper cites several research studies which indicate that statistics anxiety is quite high. Furthermore, the paper proves that this anxiety significantly erodes the overall quality and level of the students' research projects. The paper then offers suggestions to improve the teaching of statistics, as well as other suggestions to strengthen students' skills at statistical analysis.
From the Paper
"Statistics anxiety has been defined simply as anxiety that occurs as a result of encountering statistics in any form and at any level (Onwuegbuzie, DaRos, & Ryan, 1997), and has been found to negatively affect learning (Onwuegbuzie & Seaman, 1995). Many researchers (Lazar, 1990; Lalonde & Gardner, 1993; Onwuegbuzie, 2000b) suggested that learning statistics is as difficult as learning a foreign language. On the other hand, statistics anxiety sometimes is not necessarily due to the lack of training or insufficient skills, but due to the misperception about statistics and negative experiences in a statistical class. For instance, students often think they do not have enough mathematics training so that they cannot do well in statistical classes. With fear of failing the course, they delay enrolling in statistics courses as long as possible, which often leads to failure to complete their degree programs (Onwuegbuzie, 1997). The lack of self-efficacy and higher anxiety in statistics keep many students away from engaging in research work or further to pursue an academic career. Therefore, statistics becomes one of the most anxiety-inducing courses in their programs of study (Blalock, 1987; Caine, Centa, Doroff, Horowitz, & Wisenbaker, 1978; Schacht & Stewart, 1990; Zeidner, 1991)."
| |
|
Mathematician Daniel Bernoulli, 2005.
This paper discusses the life and achievements of mathematician Daniel Bernoulli.
1,995 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 63.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that Daniel Bernoulli used his analytical skills across a broad range of scientific disciplines including probability, hydrodynamics, the flow of blood and blood pressure and Riccati's differential equations. The author points out that Daniel Bernoulli improved mathematical physics with his recognition of many of Newton's theories and his utilization of the more powerful calculus of Leibniz. The paper relates that Bernoulli's mathematical explanation of the behavior of gas led to Boyle's law.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Bernoulli's Contributions to Mathematics
Effect of Bernoulli's Work on Today's World
From the Paper
"Aerodynamics is a subdivision of fluid mechanics that deals with the motion of air and other gaseous fluids, and with the forces acting on bodies in motion relative to such fluids. Some of the examples of aerodynamic actions are: the movement of an aircraft through the air, the wind forces applied on a structure and the working of a windmill. Daniel Bernoulli's principle is the main law dictating the motion of fluids, which links an increase in flow velocity to a decrease in pressure. For instance, for the same quantity of air at the entry to the venturi tube below to flow through the restriction in the middle, the air must accelerate."
| |
|
Calculus, 2006.
An overview of the mathematical concept of calculus.
1,713 words (approx. 6.9 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
Calculus is divided into two branches, one being differential and the other being integral. This paper provides an overview of calculus and examines the two branches in more detail. It also looks at the importance of calculus in the world today.
From the Paper
"It must be stated that Newton's mathematics that involved 'fluxions' was one of the first forms of the area defined as 'differential calculus'. Although Newton used and preferred to use geometrical methods to algebraic equations, calculus methods had come into importance. However, calculus was not widely accepted at the time, and there were several philosophical objections to the science, but the fact remains that these objections over the years have made no difference to the application of the science."
| |
|
Derivatives, 2006.
This paper analyzes the various methods in which derivatives are used in the areas of business and finance.
2,449 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 74.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
The writer of this paper defines a derivative as a contract that specifies the rights and obligations between the issuer of the security and the holder, to receive or deliver future cash flows based on some future event. This paper examines the various uses for derivatives which are standardized much the same as stock futures and traded through a securities exchange or futures exchange. This paper discusses the use of derivative securities as a tool to transfer risk. For example, a business can sell futures contracts on a product to a buyer, even before that particular item hits the shelf. The writer cites the various types of derivative options, such as the swap and the forward contract, which is an agreement between two parties to buy or sell a particular asset. A swap is an agreement in which, generally two, parties agree to exchange future cash flows, arising from financial instruments. This paper details how forward contracts are implemented in the corporate business world, as was the case with Lufthansa, who contracted with Boeing to purchase aircraft in the mid-1980s. This paper delves into the process known as financial engineering, which combines options and other derivatives while at the same time controlling the risk in a given transaction. This paper also discusses how derivatives are used as an option in tax planning.
From the Paper
"A common use of options for tax planing involves the deferrment of a gain from one period to another, thereby delaying the payment of taxes. For example, one company may have an investment in another company's stock that has appreciated. Company A would like to lock in the gain on Company B's stock, but does not wish to recognize the gain in the current year. It can accomplish this by using put options. This strategy would involve buying put options at the current stock price, expiring in the next fiscal year. If the stock price declines, the value of the option would increase, locking in the profit. Another strategy would be to sell a call option at the current market price. This would also lock in the gain, as any decrease in the price of the stock would be offset the increased value of the option. These strategies can also be used to reduce the risk of a drop in the stock price without regard to tax issues."
| |
|
Mathematical Concepts, 2006.
Examines the development and application of four mathematical concepts.
2,325 words (approx. 9.3 pages), 14 sources, MLA, $ 71.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explores the development of four concepts: The Golden Ration, fractals, platonic solids and the artifice of Escher. It then examines how these mathematical concepts can be applied to real life.
From the Paper
"The concept 'golden section' was first used by Martin Ohm in the 1835 in his book Die Reine Elementar-Mathematik. The first everEnglish use was seen in the article of James Sulley in 1875 which appeared in the 9th edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica. The symbol 'phi' was first used by Mark Barr at the inception of the 20th century in commemoration of the Greek sculptor Phidias, who was an extensive user of golden ratio in his works. Phi has surprising linkage with the continued fractions and the Euclidean algorithm for enumerating the Greatest Common Divisor of two integers and is also known as the Pisot Number."
| |
|
Chaos Theory, 2005.
This paper applies chaos theory to business management.
1,070 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 37.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that organizations are becoming aware of the serious need to cope with and quickly adapt to change; therefore, they increasingly are turning to chaos theory in order to understand and manage change in a dynamic business environment. The author points out that chaos theory, also known as non-linear systems theory, is based on the premise that the world is made up of complex systems that are non-linear, dynamic, unstable and unpredictable, contrasting sharp with Newtonian science, which believed that the universe functioned in an ordered, stable, linear and predictable manner. The paper relates that chaos theory has led to organizations being viewed as organic or living systems that will find orderly solutions if they are allowed to do so; however, organizational management needs to be more sensitized to environmental changes, leading to flexibility, responsiveness, dynamism and a reduced reliance on precise planning.
From the Paper
"True, that discerning the underlying structure of the complex systems that bring about change is often difficult because there are a number of myriad factors involved. However, chaos theory is nevertheless useful in understanding and managing what was previously considered to be uncontrollable, chaotic events and behavior. This is achieved by defining chaos as "the range of behaviors that deterministic processes can adopt." One such deterministic process is deemed as the organizational culture and structure itself. Indeed, this is precisely the reason why modern organizations are moving towards decentralized, leaner, flatter structures that allow for employee empowerment, self-organization and emergence."
| |
|
Chaos Theory, 2005.
This paper discusses chaos theory based on James Gleick's "Chaos: Making a New Science" and Ian Stewart's "Does God Play Dice?: The Mathematics of Chaos".
1,500 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 49.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that James Gleick believes that chaos theory is revolution in thinking, a major shift from the ordered universe of Newton and even the less mechanical universe of Einstein. The author points out that chaos theory says that the universe is decided on the basis of chance to a great degree and that the aggregate of those chances cannot be predicted or even discerned to allow a clear cause-and-effect assessment. The paper relates that chaos theory says that a small change in a system, which takes place all the time and cannot be tracked or even relied upon, can produce more and more changes until something much greater and unforeseen occurs.
From the Paper
"Ian Stewart is trained as a mathematician, while Gleick writes about science for the New York Times. Stewart is British, and Gleick American. They write about the same subject from different points of view. Stewart begins his book noting that the direction for creation has been first from chaos into order, and that physics has now found that order is something of an illusion masking the continuing chaos of reality. He also cites Newton and the Newtonian era as affirming that nature has laws and man can discover what these laws are. The world described by Newton was a clockwork world which operated like a machine, and Stewart discusses the nature of that world and world-view much more directly than does Gleick."
| |
|
Stephen William Hawking, 2005.
Examines the life history and writings of this famous physicist and mathematician.
1,945 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 61.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
In the world of science and history there are few great names that can match the name of Stephen William Hawking. Hawking is perhaps one of the best known physicist and mathematicians in history, or at least in modern times. This paper presents a close examination of the life and works of Stephen William Hawking. The writer explores his childhood to help determine how he became what he is today. The writer then examines his adult life, his works and his contributions to the world, as well as some of his more better-known theories and ideas.
From the Paper
"Another difference between Hawking and many other scientists throughout the world is that he understands the world's need for laymen terms. Many scientists are reported to be so scientific and mathematically based that their works and words are boring and over the head of everyone but other scientists. Hawking understands the average person is not going to take time to dissect scientific jargon and he put together a book that explains many of the most mind boggling ideas in history in terms that can be understood by the non scientist."
| |
|
Math Anxiety, 2005.
Examines the article "The Causes and Prevention of Math Anxiety" by Marilyn Curtain-Phillips.
791 words (approx. 3.2 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 28.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
Marilyn Curtain-Phillips' article, "The Causes and Prevention of Math Anxiety" attempts to explain the causes of math anxiety among students young and old alike. This paper shows how the
article suggests that while math anxiety is something that is tangible and real, it is also something that can be conquered when it is approached from the right perspective.
From the Paper
"Curtain-Phillips then goes on to suggest that teachers should alter the manner in which they teach math in order to help students feel more successful and realize higher levels of achievement in the classroom and out. The authors cites research conducted by Spikell in 1993 which suggests that students are more able to comprehensively learn actively rather than passively, meaning lessons should be presented in a manner that engages students actively. The article points out that lessons in math should be taught from a visual and special, logical and mathematical, body and kinesthetic, musical as well as verbal and linguistic perspective so that everyone is able to grasp information based on the manner in which they learn best."
| |
|
Darrell Huff's "How to Lie with Statistics", 2005.
This paper is a book review of Darrell Huff's classic 1954 text "How to Lie with Statistics".
905 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 32.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that Darrell Huff in his text "How to Lie with Statistics" relates that, because there is a fear of numbers in our culture and a great deal of misunderstanding or incomprehension about what number mean, combined with a paradoxical impulse to trust science as objective, people are apt to become confused by the use of numbers, regardless of what the numbers actually say. The author points out that the math is usually computed correctly but is rhetorically twisted and used to suggest an erroneous conclusion, hence Huff's rightful characterization of such misleading evidence as a lie. The paper stresses that perhaps the most relevant information in the book for today's reader pertains to interpreting potentially divisive statistics such as crime rates in cities.
From the Paper
"Such an example is not unlike the spurious study cited by Huff that smokers have significantly lower grades in college than nonsmokers. Ergo, said the researcher, smokers wishing to improve their grades should quit smoking! Of course, a statistical study showing that there's a "significant" relation between smoking and low grades doesn't show that smoking is the cause of lower grades -- perhaps educational failure draws people to smoke, suggests Huff, or more seriously, demographic factors such as poorer individual's tendency to smoke as a culturally accepted coping mechanism or to have come from less well-funded and rigorous school districts might also come into play."
| |
|
Blaise Pascal, 2006.
An overview of the life and career of seventeenth century mathematical genius, Blaise Pascal.
1,317 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 44.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper examines the life history of Blaise Pascal, born in France in 1662 and who died at the age of 39 from stomach cancer. The paper examines some of the great contributions made by Pacale to the maths field, including the first mathematical device, the creation of "Pascale's Triangle" and his theory of probability and causes.
Paper Outline:
A Genius is Born
Pascal's Education
Acceptance by the Mathematical Community
The Development of the Adding Machine and Other Experiments
Pascal's Triangle
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper
"When he turned fourteen, Pascal began to accompany his father to weekly geometrical discussions with what would later become the French Academy. The geometricians at these meetings included Roberval, Mersenne, Mydorge, Carcavi, Auzout, Mylon, Desargues and other's. The meetings were held at the home of Mersenne. Mersenne was a member of a religious order called the Minims. This is important, because later in his life Pascal would abandon math to study religion for several years."
| |
|
How Much Is Two Plus Two?, 2006.
A review of failure at teaching mathematics in America.
3,250 words (approx. 13.0 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 93.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explores why, despite being one of America's national education priorities, mathematics is a 'dreaded subject' for both teachers and students. From student anxiety to lackluster teacher, the paper explores a variety of reasons for the shortcoming. The author goes on to look at proposals for mathematics reform, concluding with his own recommendations.
From the Paper
"If anxiety is one of the causes of students' inability to learn, or their lack of interest in learning, teachers need to be aware of the problems caused when math students, regardless of their age or experience, generally blame themselves for a failure to learn or to respond to the teacher's questions. Sometimes, of course, there is parental pressure to excel and succeed, and parents often have no means of helping their children become more familiar and comfortable with learning mathematics."
| |
|
Women and Mathematics, 2005.
This paper uses empirical data to refute the common perception that women are not as skilled at mathematics as their male counterparts.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
»
Click here to show/hide summary
Abstract
This paper explains that gaps do exist between genders in the field of mathematics with females falling into the lower edge of the learning curve; however, the assumption that men are better equipped to solve mathematics equations points to a lack of equitable treatment for females and an unbalanced educational environment in public education. The paper points out that girls and boys with the same math SAT scores do not do equally well in college: Girls actually perform better on average. The paper stresses that, in the middle school, girls generally take more high-ability math courses and make better grades than boys; however, they hold less positive attitudes toward the subject because of their relatively high levels of performance anxiety, little confidence in their personal abilities and a tendency to attribute their success to luck rather than their own efforts and abilities.
From the Paper
"Moreover, the number of women Ph.Ds in mathematics has increased considerably over the years, according to a study conducted by Marie A. Vitulli and Mary E. Flahive. Data collected from the 1991-95 AMS-IMS-MAA Annual Surveys on initial employment of Ph.Ds in mathematics were obtained from questionnaires distributed to math departments with follow-ups to the degree recipients. In this study the researchers focused entirely on new Ph.Ds from Group I-III departments, that is, from departments of mathematics. The high response rate to the questionnaires (95%) from Group I-III departments allowed researchers to regard it as a census. The primary result of the analysis reported that women seem to be getting their share of first jobs, no more and no less."
|
|
|
