This article advances a view of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) as powerful inquiry-based learning tools. Through an in-depth exploration of the "Emptying the Bowl" activity, upper level mathematics students test their own mathematical hypotheses, thoughtfully analyse and manipulate computer-generated output, and answer questions…

In a previous paper, we showed the importance of using low-level commands of a CAS in order to enhance the students' conceptual insight into mathematics. In this paper, we wish to emphasise a different use of a CAS, which makes possible the exploration of new topics, when the necessary theoretical results have still not been acquired, and avoids…

Students today begin using computers and playing video games as early as two years old. The technology behind these games is more complicated than most people can imagine. In this article, the author presents some simple number games which seem easy at the beginning, but as the games are repeated, mathematical content becomes more of the focus…

This article features Number Time, a site developed by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for young mathematics learners, located at www.bbc.co.uk/schools/numbertime. The site uses interactive animation to help children in pre-K through grade 2 understand and practice number basics. Users will find online games, videos that tell number…

The What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) reviewed seven studies of the "Saxon Elementary School Math program." A distinguishing feature of "Saxon Elementary School Math" is its use of a distributed approach, as opposed to a chapter-based approach, for instruction and assessment. One of these studies met WWC standards with…

This paper describes a three-year project that has created on-line lessons and activities on math and aeronautics aimed at improving the education and aeronautics-related career options for children with physical disabilities. It has developed a specialized program, drawing from existing curricula, available materials and assistive technology,…

Since the mid-1980's, computers in elementary and middle grade schools have functioned to a large extent as a medium for student practice in the skills and concepts of basic mathematics and logic. This report presents the results of a 2-year nationwide field experiment designed to provide credible evidence about the effects of using computers in…

In an effort to prepare students for the 21st century, this book provides ideas and suggestions for educators on critical areas in mathematics education. A series of articles is presented on content changes, instructional strategies, and the role of computers. These articles include: (1) "Status of Computers" (John Ellsworth); (2) "New Topics for…

To gather information for its response to the issue whether to allow the use of hand-held calculators on standardized mathematics tests, the staff at Educational Testing Service (ETS), under the sponsorship of the College Board, developed a questionnaire to poll teachers of college-level mathematics about calculator and microcomputer use in…

Discusses the debate concerning the teaching of calculus. States that some consider calculus reform urgent because of the course's position in undergraduate studies. Considers the quality of mathematics instruction in the computer era. Cites examples of institutional experiments with new course designs. (CW)

Presents a program written in USCD Pascal that simulates a system routine. Illustrates standard and user defined boolean and string functions and string procedures. Details the processing operations. (CW)

This article investigates two common methods of determining the line of best fit and then expands on the techniques used in these methods to find the line of best fit by graphing, estimating and using a microcomputer. (PK)

"Alabama Education News" is published monthly except for June, July, and December by the Alabama Department of Education. This publication, authorized by Section 16-2-4 of the "Code of Alabama", as recompiled in 1975, is a public service of the Alabama Department of Education designed to inform citizens and educators about…

Mathematics software can be a great aid in understanding difficult mathematics concepts at all levels. This paper presents nine exercises on calculus concepts by using different software used in mathematics education. Each exercise includes instruction on how to use software in order to highlight a specific concept in mathematics. This paper also…

College courses that are taught without any technology are part of the past. With software that can do almost any mathematics including calculus, traditional teaching, with the instructor as all-knowing, is obsolete. In this paper, a comparison is made between business mathematics courses and general physics courses taught at a small private…