Mathematical Teaching Software System Ames Community Schools (ACS) has been concerned with their student’s performance in problem-solving on nationally standardized exams. While ACS traditionally scores in the 90 th percentile on traditional math skills, results from the problem-solving section were only in the 40+ percentile. The purpose of this project is to provide a software that supplements classroom learning in the area of mathematics, focusing on the improvement of problem-solving skills. Upon completion, a customizable web application will be produced. The final product will allow students to solve problems, track their performance, and allow teachers and administrators to view the students results and track their performance. By utilizing the software to extend classroom learning, the students of ACS will be better prepared for standardized math tests, ultimately resulting in higher scores. General Problem Statement A software is required that would Provide mathematical problems to aid in the area of problem-solving Provide teachers and administrators of ACS the ability to track student performance Assumptions Internet Explorer (IE) 5.0 or Netscape 5.0 All computers connected to the Internet Students are exposed to mathematical topics covered in the problems prior to use of MTSS MTSS will have write-access to the server Intended Users Students in grades 3-6 Teachers Administrators Operating Environment Web applications run on a Linux + Apache + MySQL + PHP (LAMP) architecture MySQL used as database backend Abstract Introduction Design Requirements Design Objectives Convert existing ASP code to PHP/MySQL Enable access to MySQL database for additional problems or changes Functional Requirements Accessible through the Internet User name and password scheme for system access Present problems to solve Store student statistics in a database table Print evaluations for teacher review Provide teachers the ability to create, modify, and delete problems within the database Design Constraints Multi-platform use (PC & Macintosh) Easy for students of grades 3-6 to understand Help instructions provided for students unfamiliar with computers Measurable Milestones Functional ASP version Database conversion complete Conversion from ASP to PHP complete Product meets and exceeds functional requirements suggested by ACS Estimated Resources Proposed Approach Receive feedback from ACS teachers Use PHP/MySQL for software design Create subgroups to complete multiple aspects of the software Database design and population HTML design Graphic design Application code design Other Technologies Considered Running software in ASP format CD-based rather than Internet-based Proposed Approach and Considerations Intended Uses Supplement classroom instruction Enhance problem-solving techniques Monitor student progress by serving as a record keeping tool Expected End Product A software system that would be Usable through the Internet Serve as a supplement to classroom teaching in the area of mathematical problem-solving General Problem Solution The program would be available over the Internet The final program would be written using a combination of PHP and HTML languages The program would use a MySQL database framework to implement and enable problem creation as well as adding/deleting/editing student and teacher information Limitations Processor speed of the client may be limited Number of users accessing the site simultaneously may be limited There may be an upper limit on the size of the database Team Members – (Ongo-08a)Faculty Advisors Client Personnel Effort Financial Budget Testing Considerations Sub-team testing of individual components Outside testing performed by ACS teachers Final testing performed by ACS students Closing Summary In an effort to reverse the trend of low scores on standardized math tests by students of Ames Community Schools (ACS), an interactive software program is required. This software should enable the students to visualize and solve mathematical problems using the correct problem-solving techniques. To achieve this, the team of Ongo-08a will design an Internet based software program called Mathematical Teaching Software System (MTSS). This software would not only provide mathematical problems for ACS students (in grades 3-6) to view and solve, it would enable teachers and administrators the ability to view progress reports, customize questions and add/remove/edit student information. In other words, MTSS would serve as the perfect supplement to classroom instructions. Having a strong approach and dedicated team members will make this software a reality. Carefully budgeting time, money and constantly striving to complete the proposed milestones are a few ways this project will be accomplished. Keeping the clients informed on the status of the software will be another way used to ensure the project’s success. 492 Students Chad Larson, EE Meng-Hoay Lim, EE Jason Weirather, EE Ju-Dee Lee, CprE Joseph Ratterman, CprE 491 Students Brad Baker, CprE Muhammad Rahim, CprE Dr. John Lamont Prof. Ralph Patterson Ames Community Schools (ACS) % of work required Database Language Server Client Other Resources $0 for software and client feedback PHPPHP