Not so long ago, the common response of teachers to high school use of computer algebra systems (CAS) was invariably along the lines of, "What will be left to teach if our students have access to devices which solve, factorise, do calculus and more?" and "If students use such tools, then they will never learn how to do their mathematics, and their…

Argues that while microcomputer and graphing calculators have evolved to a stage where they should be used routinely by mathematics students at all levels, there is sometimes potential to mislead students with computer generated graphs. Examples are included. (PK)

Educators need to learn more about the impact of computers and calculators on content and methods of college mathematics instruction. Experience suggests this interactive technology encourages active participation in learning, resulting in learner sense of ownership. Technology allows visualization, promotes exploration of various methods of…

Discusses how calculators and computers can assist in the teaching of the basic mathematical competencies. (YP)

This document promotes a better awareness of available technological tools, their implementation, and their advantages and applications in teaching and learning mathematics. Principles for successful implementation are: (1) computation should be an integral part of instruction; (2) software and curriculum development should go hand-in-hand; (3)…

Designed as an avenue of communication for all mathematics educators concerned with the views, ideas, and experiences pertinent to two-year college teachers and students, this journal presents articles and regular features related to mathematical and pedagogical themes. This issue includes the following articles: (1) "Fractals for Freshmen? Or,…

Reports 17 recommendations that focus primarily on curriculum in grades 11-13 for students who take a four-year college-preparatory program. Appropriate curricular patterns for students who are intending to pursue careers that depend on mathematics are indicated. (PK)

Calculus must evolve or face the prospect of becoming irrelevant. The minimum level of classroom technology now available requires us to rethink the content of our calculus courses. Proposes using graphing calculators and computer algebra systems to include the following topics: local linearity, optimization problems, families of curves, and…

Presented are two reasons discouraging computer symbol manipulation systems use in school mathematics at present: cost for computer laboratories or expensive pocket computers; and impracticality of exact solution representations. Although development with this technology in mathematics education advances, graphing calculators are recommended to…

This document asserts that mathematics is becoming essential to many more disciplines. The paper is an attempt to describe the sorts of curricular changes which many mathematics educators are now recommending. The paper discusses: (1) mathematical power; (2) mathematics instruction; (3) new research directions; (4) mathematical thinking and…

Examines the issue of how calculators and computers can best be used in mathematics education. Contends that practicing a procedure is noncognitive and does not produce learning. Suggests utilizing customized computerized tools in schools for getting answers to algorithmic problems instantly, thus allowing teachers to explain and students to…

Notes some of the concerns about calculus education that were expressed at a recent conference of the National Academy of Sciences. Lists problems with unwieldy textbooks, poor teaching, large classes, and low standards. Suggests that the increasing use of computers and advanced calculators can help reform calculus instruction. (TW)