When maths really is rocket science

Two problems in projectiles are discussed which generate interestingloci.     

Automatic grading of students' ALGOL programming

The report describes an experiment on automatic grading of student algorithms, using an ALGOL compiler. The experiment is based on an evaluation of the efficiency and logical completeness of the algorithms, not on their formal correctness, which is supposed to be checked in advance by the individual student. The technique used is to embed the student algorithms within a larger grading program structure, which supplies test cases and performs checks and evaluation. The complete text of such a grading program is given. The experience gained through the experiment, and suggestions for further developments, are discussed.     

Factors influencing first-year students' success in mathematics

Qualitative data from lecturers and students were used to identify factors which were perceived as making the most important contributions to students' academic success or failure in first-year mathematics courses. The study was conducted in three phases involving exploratory open-ended questionnaires, Likert-type questionnaires, and interviews. The results highlight both areas of similarities and areas of differences in lecturers' and students' perceptions about influences on student success and failure. While both students and lecturers acknowledged the importance of motivation, differences in perceptions suggest further research is needed in the areas of active learning, help-seeking, and student effort and workload.