Discusses the notion of variables in computer algebra, mathematics, and science. Central are the questions of how variables are actually used in mathematics and science, how computer algebra supports the various uses of variables, what conceptual differences exist, and what consequences follow from this for teaching, learning, and doing…

Uses data from the Third International Mathematics and Science Study to determine trends in calculator use among 13-year-olds in Japan, the United States, and Portugal. Indicates relatively high levels of calculator use for U.S. and Portugal, and no calculator use for Japan. Reports a statistically significant negative relationship between…

Describes an adaptation of the chemistry of lightsticks to use the calculator-based laboratory (CBL) interface, a TI-82/83 graphing calculator, and an easily manufactured wooden block as the support system. (CCM)

Offers a few examples of the ease with which science, mathematics, and technology can converge. Illustrates some of the potential of Calculator-Based Laboratory (CBL) and Calculator-Based Ranger (CBR) to study mathematics. (ASK)

Reviews the use of handheld computers and mobile imaging devices for teaching and learning. Highlights include features of handheld computers to consider for use in elementary and secondary education; graphic calculators as part of local area networks; digital cameras; and portable scanners. (LRW)

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)

Introduces the notion of a class networked with graphing calculators and discusses the pedagogical implications of this set up. New teaching methods are necessary to exploit the potential of the system. (MM)

Shares experiences of a project aimed at developing and refining programs written on a Casio FX9750G graphing calculator. Describes in detail some programs used to develop mental strategies and problem solving skills. (MM)

Provides a lesson plan designed to form three one-hour sessions with mixed ability groups of 11-12 year olds. The activity involves students estimating road distances by counting the number of map grid lines crossed in going from A to B. The activity is designed to introduce students to graphing calculators. Screenshots from the calculator are…

Describes the different types of scientific calculators and explains how graphic calculators can apply to chemical problems. (Contains 19 references.) (YDS)

This article reports on results of an exploratory study on undergraduate pre-service teachers' understanding of graphical representations of motion functions. The study described pre-service teachers' explorations using a CBR device. Pre-service teachers' growth was studied in two dimensions: (a) in their learning of the mathematics involved and…

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…

Probably the one "new" mathematical topic that is most responsible for modernizing courses in college algebra and precalculus over the last few years is the idea of fitting a function to a set of data in the sense of a least squares fit. Whether it be simple linear regression or nonlinear regression, this topic opens the door to applying the…

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.