NSF Org:	DRL Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings (DRL)
Recipient:	UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
Initial Amendment Date:	September 21, 2001
Latest Amendment Date:	June 4, 2004
Award Number:	0099220
Award Instrument:	Continuing Grant
Program Manager:	Ron Tzur DRL  Division of Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings (DRL) EDU  Directorate for STEM Education
Start Date:	September 1, 2001
End Date:	August 31, 2006 (Estimated)
Total Intended Award Amount:	$398,109.00
Total Awarded Amount to Date:	$423,109.00
Funds Obligated to Date:	FY 2001 = $121,910.00 FY 2002 = $129,002.00 FY 2003 = $147,197.00 FY 2004 = $25,000.00
History of Investigator:	Janet Beissinger (Principal Investigator) beissinger@uchicago.edu Vera Pless (Co-Principal Investigator)
Recipient Sponsored Research Office:	University of Illinois at Chicago 809 S MARSHFIELD AVE M/C 551 CHICAGO IL  US  60612-4305 (312)996-2862
Sponsor Congressional District:	07
Primary Place of Performance:	University of Illinois at Chicago 809 S MARSHFIELD AVE M/C 551 CHICAGO IL  US  60612-4305
Primary Place of Performance Congressional District:	07
Unique Entity Identifier (UEI):	W8XEAJDKMXH3
Parent UEI:
NSF Program(s):	AISL, INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS DEVELP
Primary Program Source:	app-0401  04000203DB NSF Education & Human Resource app-0403  04000405DB NSF Education & Human Resource
Program Reference Code(s):	9177, SMET
Program Element Code(s):	725900, 735500
Award Agency Code:	4900
Fund Agency Code:	4900
Assistance Listing Number(s):	47.076

ABSTRACT

This project develops an 8-week middle-school mathematics module that introduces cryptography, the science of sending secret messages, while teaching and reinforcing the learning of related mathematical concepts. The topics range from the classical encryption systems and the historic context in which they were used through powerful modern encryption systems that provide secrecy in electronic messages today. The module also covers passwords and codes that correct errors in the transmission of information. Public awareness of the importance of cryptography is growing, as is the need to understand the issues involved. The study of cryptography provides an interesting context for students to apply traditional mathematical skills and concepts. Mathematical topics covered include percents, probability, functions, prime numbers, decimals, inverses and modular arithmetic.

The main product is a middle-school student book, with accompanying teacher materials. A web site is being developed that supports the activities in this book. Abbreviated modules for Grades 3, 4 and 5 are also being developed, as well as an instructor's guide for adapting the materials for use in informal educational settings such as museums and after-school programs. The development of the module involves piloting and field-testing by experienced classroom teachers from diverse school communities and instructors of informal educational programs. Evaluation includes review by mathematicians and educators, as well as an investigation into the level of students' understanding of the topics studied.

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