Along the Traces of the Conic Sections

Based on a geometry problem by Ivan Salabashev we demonstrate an exploratory process leading to conic sections as a locus of points. We work for the purpose with the GeoGebra dynamic software making use of different objects’ representations for explorations related with conic sections

Extending the Class of Mathematical Problems Solvable in School

The problems of practical importance which are considered in school today necessarily have to lead to a mathematical model that can be solved by school mathematics knowledge. This includes systems of equations of at most second degree, some simple trigonometry and/or some basic geometry. This restricts severely the class of such problems and conveys the impression that mathematics is not applicable enough. We provide examples of problems related to practice which are difficult to solve by means of traditional school mathematics but are amenable for solving (at least with a certain precision) with the use of software systems dealing with mathematical problems. We also present the results of an experiment with such problems that were given to school students participating in the second round of the competition “VIVA Mathematics with Computer”. ACM Computing Classification System (1998): K.3.1

Achievements and Problems in the In-service Teacher Education in Inquiry Based Style

Report published in the Proceedings of the National Conference on "Education and Research in the Information Society", Plovdiv, May, 2015The paper deals with the experience of the authors in promoting the Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) in mathematics and science education within international and national projects. The emphasis is on in-service teacher education. Various types of activities and resources in support of all levels of IBL are considered, e.g. professional development courses, seminars, workshop, and performances; implementation of resources stimulating students to behave like working mathematicians. The first visible positive effects and potential problems in the implementation of IBL in the Bulgarian schools are discussed.Association for the Development of the Information Society, Institute of Mathematics and Informatics Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski

Stereometry activities with DALEST

This book reports on a project to devise and test a teaching programme in 3D geometry for middle school students based on the needs, knowledge and experiences of a range of countries within the European Union. The main objective of the project was the development (and testing) of a dynamic three-dimensional geometry microworld that enabled the students to construct, observe and manipulate geometrical figures in space and which their teachers used to help their students construct an understanding of stereometr

Bulgarian Trace in Scientix

Report published in the Proceedings of the National Conference on "Education and Research in the Information Society", Plovdiv, May, 2015The paper deals with the Scientix project and its contributions to the establishment of a European network for exchange of ideas, good practices and experience, crucial for the contemporary development of STEM education in inquiry based style. Some events held in Bulgaria in the frames of Scientix are discussed. Options for using the repository of projects and learning materials, as well as for organizing virtual courses and meetings with colleagues from Europe are presented.Association for the Development of the Information Society, Institute of Mathematics and Informatics Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Plovdiv University "Paisii Hilendarski