Why calculators should be used for testing, as well as for instruction, is discussed. The focus of the curriculum would shift from computation to deeper development of concepts and to mathematical modeling. A broader curriculum would result. (MNS)

Algebraic calculators with symbolic manipulation capabilities are tools in some classrooms for 14-19 year olds, and their use in learning and teaching mathematics is likely to increase over time. Explains the reports of government-initiated working groups that consider the implications of their use in academic mathematics examinations for…

Investigates whether the use of computer algebra systems could provide a significant advantage to students taking standard university entrance calculus examinations. Indicates that supercalculators would probably provide a significant advantage, particularly for lower-achieving students. Demonstrates that it is possible to write questions in which…

Reviews examination questions and categorizes them according to their usefulness in a Computer Algebra System (CAS) environment with respect to their significance for testing abilities and skills and from the point of view of using a CAS for their solution. Examination questions are presented as an important didactical tool in teaching…

Describes students' written answers that seemed technology-assisted in the 1999 Calculus Tertiary Entrance Examination (TEE). Illustrates how in the 1999 Calculus TEE some students used their calculators in flexible ways. (ASK)

Describes an inquiry into students' uses of graphics calculators in the Tertiary Entrance Examination of Calculus in Western Australia for 1998. Discusses a comparative analysis of boys' and girls' performances. Indicates that the main areas of difficulty for students are interpreting graphing calculator outputs and knowing when use of graphing…

Describes the outcomes and discusses possible implications for the development of assessment with a Computer Algebra System (CAS) when a group of undergraduate mathematics students, familiar with using a CAS in examinations, tackled an assortment of traditional (i.e., non-CAS type) questions. (Author/MM)

Data from the 1977-78 mathematics assessment of the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) on the use of calculators are discussed. (MP) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Results (Interpretation).

Surveys a group of students who enrolled in a first year university mathematics course to study the impacts of graphing calculators on the Western Australian Tertiary Entrance Examination (TEE). Considers the perceptions of students on their use of and preparation to use graphing calculators. (ASK)

Reviews what is happening in examination systems that have begun to allow the use of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) in externally set 'high stakes' assessment regimes. Discusses possible options for the future with the intention of developing a dialogue on how assessment with a CAS can help develop the mathematical literacy of students. (Author/MM)

Nineteen Calculus II students were randomly sampled and divided into calculator (n=9) and noncalculator (n=10) groups. These students were asked to "think aloud" while solving 24 Advanced Placement calculus problems. Each student interview was videotaped, coded and analyzed for reasoning process as well as outcome. The results indicated…

The widespread availability of pocket electronic calculators raises issues with respect to some goals of the current curriculum and with regard to testing practices. (SD)

NCTM Past President Cathy L. Seeley shares her messages on today's most relevant topics and issues in education. Based on Cathy L. Seeley's award-winning NCTM President's Messages, and including dozens of new messages, this must-have K-12 resource offers straight talk and common sense about some of today's most important, thought-provoking issues…

Fourteen research reports related to mathematics education are abstracted and analyzed. Five studies deal with aspects of mathematics instruction, and there are four reports each on mathematics achievement and on two cognitive processes. The remaining items concern calculators, attitudes, and aptitude-treatment interaction. Research related to…

This document summarizes the research done on calculators and calculator use. It is noted that calculators are now seen as acceptable, with fears about use in school currently infrequent, and the role of such devices much more evident than 6 years ago. The first two sections of this material summarize data on use and availability. It is noted that…