The advent of powerful Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) continues to dramatically affect curricula, pedagogy, and epistemology in secondary and college algebra classrooms. However, epistemological and pedagogical research regarding the role and effectiveness of CAS in the learning of algebra lags behind. This paper investigates concerns regarding…

Questions students raise about the meaning of zero to the zero power present an opportunity for mathematics teachers to involve students in active participation in exploring mathematical relationships. Calculators are the needed tool to make this exploration accessible to students. How they can be used is described. (MNS)

A procedure using calculators is described to test Ulam's conjecture that all positive integers converge to 1, if subject to certain iterated transformations. (MNS)

Describes how the rich examples of geometric images provided by string art can be used to generate some of the mathematics studied by students. Considers string art, graphing calculators, and elementary algebra as appropriate tools for students to use in generating interesting topics of study in mathematics. (DDR)

Annotated are questionnaire responses from 88 state and regional contest supervisors concerning trends in calculator usage and nonusage among 59 represented mathematical contests. Discussed are advantages and disadvantages for specific contest problem types with respect to both pencil-and-paper and calculator methods of solution. (JJK)

Presents a methodology designed to strengthen the cognitive effects of using graphing calculators to solve polynomial equations using pattern matching, searching, and heuristics. Discusses pattern matching as a problem-solving strategy useful in the physical, social, political, and economic worlds of today's students. (DDR)

Provides pathological examples for which graphing calculators sometimes give surprising, misleading, or incorrect results. Investigates some of the more interesting of these examples encountered while using the TI-85 in a variety of undergraduate courses including calculus and matrix theory. (DDR)

Presents several types of functions which fit a given set of data and create opportunities for classroom discussion comparing different kinds of functions and identifying some of the potential hazards associated with extrapolation from best-fit functions. (DDR)