Presents the results of an investigation into how pre-service teachers with low-level mathematics qualifications do mathematics when using hand-held, sophisticated mathematics technology as a tool. Results indicate that students were able to master the technical aspects of the TI-92, ask relevant questions and engage in mathematical discussion,…

Describes how the introduction of the TI-92 transformed a traditional first semester linear algebra course into a matrix-oriented course that emphasized conceptual understanding, relevant applications, and numerical issues. Indicates an increase in students' overall performance as they found the calculator very useful, believed it helped them…

Using a Computer Algebra System (CAS) to help with the teaching of an elementary course in linear algebra can be one way to introduce computer algebra, numerical analysis, data structures, and algorithms. Highlights the advantages and disadvantages of this approach to the teaching of linear algebra. (Author/MM)

Reports the results of a qualitative, classroom-based study on the interactions between the role, knowledge, and beliefs of the teacher; the mathematical tasks; and the patterns of graphing calculator use by a group of pre-calculus students. Describes the development of a set of norms that governed the ways in which the tool was used in the…

Suggests a model for the learning and reinforcing of algebraic manipulative skills through the intensive use of group work using computer algebra systems (CAS). Suggests a model for assessing students through group work, for using the TI-92 as a self-assessment tool, and in cross-curricular activities. (Author/ASK)

Demonstrates a less utilized feature of the TI-92+: its natural and powerful programming language. Shows how to implement several linear algebra related algorithms including the Gram-Schmidt process, Least Squares Approximations, Wronskians, Cholesky Decompositions, and Generalized Linear Least Square Approximations with QR Decompositions.…

Investigates the impact of the TI-89 hand-held Computer Algebra System (CAS) on student achievement in a first year college core calculus course. Analyzes data from an experimental study conducted at the United States Military Academy at West Point from 1998-2000. Results indicate that the TI-89 hand-held CAS experimental group attained a higher…

Describes the different ways in which two pioneering Australian teachers adapted their teaching to use computer algebra systems (CAS). One teacher used CAS with the primary goal of increasing understanding but restricted student use. The other teacher adopted CAS as an extra technique for solving standard problems, emphasizing time saving routines…

Presents examples to illustrate that iteration and recursion are useful pedagogical tools that can be used in many areas of mathematics, make models traditionally taught in upper levels accessible in grades 9-14, and provide alternative problem solving approaches less dependent upon ready-made formulas. (Author/MM)

Reports on a study replicating and extending a previous study examining the effects of the TI-92 graphics calculator and calculus instruction on students' success in calculus. Finds that students using a TI-92 had significantly better performance on the final exam and overall course grade than students using other calculators, and student-centered…

Technology offers the opportunity to study larger, more difficult group structures and perform tedious computations quickly while maintaining the focus on concepts over calculations. Explores several technology options available to the instructor as well as sample assignments and class explorations that effectively integrate technology within the…

Describes a mini-experiment on how the TI-92 might fit into normal classroom learning and considers students' initial reactions to the calculator. (Author/ASK)

Provides experiences of teaching students who had the use of a TI-92 for the semester, both in and out of class, with a greater emphasis on modeling and qualitative graphical methods and decreased emphasis on explicit solution techniques. Indicates that the TI-92 proved to be an invaluable tool for this course. (Author/ASK)

Provides evidence of differences in students' ability to solve problems with and without a computer algebra system. Indicates that almost without exception, the TI-92 students were more successful at symbolically solving problems than comparison students. Observes improved performance on all three levels of problems: (1) directive computational;…