Three mathematics software packages, MathCAD, Point Five, and TK Solver Plus, are described and compared. The packages were rated on the accompanying documentation, ease of learning, ease of use, matrix operations, equation solving capability, versatility, use of units, generation of graphs and tables, readability of output, and overall…

Library user guides from seven large academic libraries were examined for readability using microcomputer software for analysis. Results indicated that most guides are written at or above a reading level of grade 12. Appendices summarize readability formulas and depict in a composite graph the levels of all of the guides examined. (16 references)…

Recent research has demonstrated the promise of graphing software as an aid to teaching graphs in two content areas: line graphs of aspects of motion and graphs of algebraic functions. This study attempted to generalize the idea of computer-assisted graphing to include the use of several kinds of graphs to solve a wider range of problems. A unit…

Presents a programing subroutine which will create a graphical plot that occupies any number of columns specified by user and will run with versions of BASIC programming language. Illustrations of the subroutine's ability to operate successfully for three possibilities (negative values, positive values, and both positive and negative values) are…

Discusses the hardware and software necessary to generate charts and graphs to illustrate numeric data using a microcomputer. The manufacturer, price, operating system, memory requirements, and types of graphs they can produce are given for nine graphics software packages and seven inexpensive plotters. (MBR)

Use of Logo to teach statistical ideas is proposed for students in grades 5-10. Procedures and diagrams are suggested, with program listings for four models for graphs. (MNS)

Given is an example of the solution of maximum-minimum problems by replacing differentiation techniques with microcomputers and simple BASIC programs. (MNS)

Three activities with Knuth functions are discussed and illustrated, with sample computer programs listed. (MNS)

The graphing of intricate curves and the fundamental theorem of algebra lead to a third discovery with microcomputers: Lagrange polynomials. Teaching suggestions for helping students to explore continuous change, interpolation, roots, and shifting and symmetry are presented, with a computer program listing. (MNS)

Presented is an interactive Applesoft BASIC program that graphically demonstrates the central limit theorem. It can be used as the basis of a lab to illustrate the main conclusions of the theorem. (MNS)

A function-graphing program is given, plus a series of experiments that students can carry out using the program. (MNS)

Graphing is a common and powerful symbol system for representing concrete data. Yet research has shown that students often have graphical misconceptions about how graphs are related to the concrete event. Currently, the Technical Education Research Center (TERC) is developing microcomputer-based laboratories (MBL) science units that use probes to…

This summary reports the highlights of a survey on microcomputer usage in institutions of higher education which was sponsored in part by EDUCOM. Software issues are emphasized, including assistance in evaluation, integrating software into the curriculum, and policy and procedures concerning illegal access and duplication. (LRW)

Four activities are outlined that give students the opportunity to organize and display data. Selecting topics and various ways of displaying data with a microcomputer are discussed. (MNS)

Two different numerical methods, the bisection method and simple iteration, are discussed and illustrated by approximating the real solution of an equation, with programs for the two methods included. Alternative methods are also indicated. (MNS)