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…

The study compared the improvement in computational skills of two similar groups of accounting students, one using calculators in examinations and the other not. Not using calculators seems to improve the arithmetical ability of students, but does not significantly improve students' feel for numbers or ability to solve word problems. (CH)

This paper explores questions about linear relationships through the use of pattern. Participants in the session generated and extended patterns and used calculators to investigate the relationships. Examples from current Texas Instruments (TI) books and U.S. textbook series, plus examples from proposed TI materials are shared. These activities…

Graphing calculators present a challenging task for mathematics teachers in the classroom. This digest offers four distinct methods for using graphing calculators in mathematics classrooms, including: (1) tools for expediency; (2) amplifiers for conceptual understanding; (3) catalysts for critical thinking; and (4) vehicles for integration.…

This paper discusses TI-89 and TI-92 graphing calculators as a tool for teaching mathematics. How this technology is likely to affect the teaching of mathematics and the role of technology in general is described. Discussion begins with a comparison of two areas, mathematics and moving/transportation, from a technological aspect, and focuses on…

Reviews 10 years of graphing calculators. Examines the issues associated with them and attempts to confront some questions such as, for the teacher, whether graphing calculators should be used in instruction. (ASK)

Debates the place of standard methods, the calculator, and mental mathematics in elementary education. Proposes a framework for computation that emphasizes a sequence for introducing computational procedures. (ASK)

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…

A Mandelbrot mathematical set is an object with endless borders, and in the present exercise a graphing calculator is used to identify and examine the set points. The significance and power of technology is also displayed in the understanding and solving of problems.

A teacher shares his successful experience in helping students understand the relationship between exponents and logarithms in high school and college courses. He presents the procedure that he used for teaching using a graphing calculator that shows previous calculations made.

When technologies are used in mathematics education it is important to assess how activities will support the development of mathematical understanding and the technical expertise that students will need. The two issues are discussed in this paper. Literature is reviewed and findings from a recent study in a high-school class are reported. The…

This study investigated K-12 teachers' beliefs and reported teaching practices regarding calculator use in their mathematics instruction. A survey was administered to more than 800 elementary, middle and high school teachers in a large metropolitan area to address the following questions: (a) what are the beliefs and practices of mathematics…

Discussed are the difficulties that entering college freshmen seem to have with mathematics, particularly with fractional forms. A success-oriented program is suggested in which all students are successful. To obtain this goal, a number of alternative routes are discussed such as presenting decimals before fractional forms and the use of the…

Two brief articles are included, one on a different method for solving percentage problems, and one on a trick for the calculator involving the sine to find one's age. (MNS)

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…