The senior school Mathematics syllabus is often restricted to the study of single variable differential equations of the first order. Unfortunately most real life examples do not follow such types of relations. In addition, very few differential equations in real life have exact solutions that can be expressed in finite terms. Even if the solution…

Graphing calculator use is often thought of in terms of pre-calculus or continuous topics in mathematics. This paper contains examples and activities that demonstrate useful, interesting, and easy ways to use a graphing calculator with discrete topics. Examples are given for each of the following topics: functions, mathematical induction and…

Stresses the links between the technical work and the conceptual reflection in the learning of mathematics and argues that the potential of Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) is to be found in the more varied and richer techniques that CAS can offer. Reports on an experiment with DERIVE as well as findings of research on graphical calculators, and…

This article on mathematics in the curriculum describes how students learn the characteristics of conic section equations by entering them into graphing calculators to make happy faces in a high school or college algebra class. A sample worksheet page is included. (Author/LRW)

Drawing from experiences at Ohio State University (OSU) with remedial college students and with 12th grade students without elementary algebra skills, this paper outlines a numerical approach to algebra instruction using handheld calculators. Introductory material discusses problems with traditional approaches to math education and outlines some…

University of Chicago School Mathematics Project shares some insights about using new technology, incorporating real-world data and applications into mainstream mathematics, improving student performance, and changing mathematics curriculum. Calculators are easily implemented, particularly high schools. Virtually all students can learn to apply…

Describes a pilot study on the use of computer algebra at the upper secondary level. A symbolic calculator was introduced in a pre-examination class studying for advanced pre-university mathematics. Focuses on the identification of obstacles that students encounter while using computer algebra with the theoretical framework of Realistic…

Describes the use of an application for TI-83 and TI-92 calculators called the Symbolic Math Guide (SMG) for teaching and learning the laws of exponents in algebra. Discusses ways in which the SMG can be used for teaching, review, and testing. (MM)

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…

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.…

How does your calculator quickly produce values of trigonometric functions? You might be surprised to learn that it does not use series or polynomial approximations, but rather the so-called CORDIC method. This paper will focus on the geometry of the CORDIC method, as originally developed by Volder in 1959. This algorithm is a wonderful…

This paper is designed to show how graphics display calculators can be used to analyze data. The paper describes a classroom activity, where students calculate a linear regression on a data set and answer questions related to the regression. Teaching notes, a full solution, and calculator instructions are included as are blackline masters. (MM)

Considers the impact of the introduction of graphic calculators into assessment within the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Discusses difficulties that arise in the development of practice questions, how these difficulties were resolved in the questions that appeared on the examinations, and problems of different calculator syntax. (Author/KHR)

Describes how the meaning of a tool was constructed by students and their teacher, and how students used the tool to construct mathematical meaning out of particular tasks through a qualitative classroom-based study. Suggests that the nature of the mathematical tasks and the role, knowledge, and beliefs of the teacher influenced the emergence of…

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…