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Site Information

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Project Information

The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives (NLVM) is an NSF supported project that began in 1999 to develop a library of uniquely interactive, web-based virtual manipulatives or concept tutorials, mostly in the form of Java applets, for mathematics instruction (K-12 emphasis). The project includes dissemination and extensive internal and external evaluation. Large NSF logo    National Science Foundation
Award Number 9819107

Learning and understanding mathematics, at every level, requires student engagement. Mathematics is not, as has been said, a spectator sport. Too much of current instruction fails to actively involve students. One way to address the problem is through the use of manipulatives, physical objects that help students visualize relationships and applications. We can now use computers to create virtual learning environments to address the same goals.

There is a need for good computer-based mathematical manipulatives and interactive learning tools at elementary and middle school levels. Our Utah State University team is building Java-based mathematical tools and editors that allow us to create exciting new approaches to interactive mathematical instruction. The use of Java as a programming language provides platform independence and web-based accessibility.

The NLVM is a resource from which teachers may freely draw to enrich their mathematics classrooms. The materials are also of importance for the mathematical training of both in-service and pre-service teachers. The library is actively being extended and refined through projects including the eNLVM, a project to develop interactive online learning units for mathematics.

Revision History

You may see information about the following revisions:

System Requirements

Web Browsers

To view the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives, you must use a Java-enabled web browser. We have verified that the virtual manipulatives (Java applets) run in the following web browsers:

  • Windows Vista - Internet Explorer 7.0
  • Windows XP - Firefox 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0
  • Windows XP - Internet Explorer 6.0 and 7.0
  • Windows 2000 - Internet Explorer 5.5
  • Windows 2000 - Netscape 4.08, 4.75, and 6.1
  • Mac OS X - Camino 0.8
  • Mac OS X - Firefox 1.0 and 1.5
  • Mac OS X - Netscape 7.1
  • Mac OS X - Safari 1.2.3

If you find that the website works or doesn't work in other web browsers, please email us at nlvm AT usu DOT edu and we will add it to this list.

Reporting Problems with the Website

NOTE: If you are experiencing difficulties accessing the NLVM from a Macintosh, please download, install, and try the latest Java Virtual Machine before contacting us.

If you experience problems accessing the site, please let us know by emailing nlvm AT usu DOT edu. When contacting us, please include the following information:

  • Operating system name and version (Windows 2000, XP, Vista / Mac OS X 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, etc.)
  • Web browser name and version (Firefox 1.5, 2.0; Internet Explorer 6.0, 7.0; Netscape; Opera; Safari, etc.)
  • Internet connection speed (28.8, 56.6, Cable, LAN/T1, etc.)
  • URL of the page you found the problem on
  • Description of the problem you experienced

We will respond with a fix or explanation as soon as possible.

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