Discusses using black body function for radiative heat transfer, which can be used in a real-life application in a number of different topics in A-level and first-year undergraduate mathematical methods courses such as differentiation, solving nonlinear equations, and integration by substitution. (ASK)

Argues that teachers and lecturers need to identify essential skills which are technology-independent and need to determine the most effective use of new technology in the classroom. Examines prospects for change using the newer technology of graphing calculators for mathematics courses. Contains 15 references. (ASK)