Uses data from the Third International Mathematics and Science Study to determine trends in calculator use among 13-year-olds in Japan, the United States, and Portugal. Indicates relatively high levels of calculator use for U.S. and Portugal, and no calculator use for Japan. Reports a statistically significant negative relationship between…

Used a programmable Hewlett-Packard scientific calculator to rapidly convert raw scores from adolescent MMPI protocols to T scores, scale by scale. The K factor is handled, as needed, automatically. Complete scoring and profiling of the R-form MMPI can be done in less than 10 minutes. (Author/JAC)

The study of linear functions is important as it provides students with their first experience of identifying and interpreting the relationship between two dependent variables. This paper, which builds on previous research, reports a study undertaken with 64 year 9 students from two Australian schools. Linear functions were introduced to these…

Explores the extent and nature of students' calculator usage as determined from examination scripts in the Western Australian Calculus Tertiary Entrance Examination. Discusses errors made and understanding called upon for seven questions. Discusses instruction and assessment of skills associated with graphical interpretation. (Author/KHR)

Found that, after extracting an arithmetic problem from a real situation and working out an answer, 6- to 12-year-olds with learning difficulties in math were unable to reapply the answer to the situation. Also found that the children, in a hypothetical situation, were unable to use token money, or to do calculations on paper or with an electronic…

This paper outlines an experiment in which pupils in Key Stage 2 were encouraged to use graphics calculators, in particular two simple programs, which helped them develop recall of their tables and allowed them to practise multiplication. The pupils responded very well to the calculators and seemed to have been motivated by them. The pupils did…

Inquires into assessment items classified as "extended pieces of work" in applicable mathematics in Western Australia. Identifies opportunities for graphics calculator use in extended pieces implemented in schools. Concludes that availability of the technology has widened the scope of approaches used in extended pieces of work in…

It is not necessary for students to learn about numbers and number operations before effectively using calculators; rather that such understanding and skill follows naturally from appropriate access to technology. Students using calculators and computers demonstrate improved attitudes toward mathematics, increased confidence in their problem…

These guidelines were developed to provide assistance to Alberta schools in the development of policy for the use of calculators in classrooms, and also to provide some assistance to teachers in planning appropriate experiences for students. A position statement advocating the use of calculators as both instructional and computational aids is…

Discusses the meaning of calculation errors, describing two error types (truncation and roundoff errors). Examples of calculator calculations are given to illustrate the importance of an awareness of significant digits and the effects of errors that may lead user to a mistaken interpretation of calculated results or to faulty conclusions.…

Demonstrates the capabilities of graphics calculators in assisting with a simple mathematical investigation. Subjects covered include Direct Calculation, Tables, Graphing Particular Cases, Logarithms, Parametric Solutions, and Three-Dimensional Plots and Contours. The question posed for investigation with the calculator is, for what pairs of…

Responses from 327 of 340 English secondary students identified the following 2 factors associated with preference for using/not using calculators: (1) degree of enjoyment of number work and confidence in calculation; and (2) degree of skepticism about the legitimacy of calculators or lack of confidence in using them. Primary schools had great…

Describes a research and development project whose main focus is the use of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) in mathematics classrooms and the didactical possibilities linked with its use. Focuses on the possibilities and problems of cooperation between theory and practice and between mathematics educators and teachers. (Author/MM)

For mathematics teachers who are continually looking for ways in which to engage their students in the learning process, the capabilities offered by technology answer the call. Whether the technology comprises computer based applications or graphics calculators, often boring aspects can be bypassed so that students can work on the "good…

This study investigates the degree to which relatively low-cost microtechnology devices, e.g., electronic games and calculators, might be considered as aids to learning in the classroom situation. A brief discussion includes an overview of the research that has been done on the use of calculators as learning devices and examples of criticisms of…