Reports the results of an investigation designed to help algebra teachers and curriculum developers by providing insights into how high-performing college algebra students (N=30) develop an understanding of major aspects of the concept of function. Results revealed that these high-performing students actually possessed weak understanding. Contains…

Formulas for use in computer programs are presented. Two programming applications are discussed: one to ballistics using inverse sine and one to hours of daylight using inverse cosine. (MNS)

Discusses four computer-assisted-instruction programs used in a college-level mathematics course to introduce computer literacy and improve mathematical skills. The BASIC programs include polynomial functions, trigonometric functions, matrix algebra, and differential calculus. Each program discusses mathematics theory and introduces programming…

Computer algebra systems (such as MACSYMA and muMath) can carry out many of the operations of calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations. Use of them with sketching graphs of rational functions and with other topics is discussed. (MNS)

Included are brief articles discussing chain letters as an example of exponential growth, a box technique for factoring, and integrating the inverse of a function whose integral is known. (MNS)

Discussed are the idea, examples, problems, and applications of convexity. Topics include historical examples, definitions, the John-Loewner ellipsoid, convex functions, polytopes, the algebraic operation of duality and addition, and topology of convex bodies. (KR)

Describes a simple cooling experiment that can be conducted in class at the college algebra, precalculus, calculus, or differential equations level whose aim is to determine the best exponential function to fit the experimental data. (Author/ASK)

Investigated the effect of mathematics instruction with the aid of microcomputer illustrations on the achievement of college students enrolled in an intermediate algebra course. There was a treatment effect on the comprehensive final examination. (YP)

The advent of calculators for graphing and function plotters is changing the way college algebra and calculus are taught. This paper illustrates how the machines are used for teaching the following: (1) domain and range; (2) product and quotient inequalities; and (3) the solving of equations. Instructional hints are provided for each topic with…

College algebra is currently being taught using graphing calculators such as the TI-81. This document presents exploratory and problem solving activities that have resulted from classroom experiences with the TI-81. The activities have been designed to enhance the learning of some standard college algebra topics through the easy access to…

Argues that computer instantiations of abstract concepts could assist mathematics education by providing concrete experiences and by inducing the mental process of construction that Piaget called reflexive abstraction. College students with computer experiences scored higher than those taught with traditional methods on a test of functions and…

Suggested are features which should be considered before selecting a specific interactive graphics package. Features that allow for accurate estimates of roots of functions and solutions to systems of equations are illustrated. Six graphics packages are compared including display, tabular options, misleading graphics, printing options, functions…

A mathematical model is used to represent a physical problem. The resulting polynomial is graphed and analyzed. Students are asked to plot families of related polynomial functions and observe patterns. A partial list of possible observations is included. End behavior, complete graph, and classroom use of technology are discussed. (GW)

Presents examples of using the computer to enhance teaching function evaluation using BASIC, Riemann sums using MAPLE computer algebra systems, and linear programing using MATLAB. (YP)

This paper gives results of a review of 41 high school, junior high school, and college algebra and mathematics textbooks. The review focuses on two facets of the curriculum: (1) the presentation of the concept of variable; and (2) word problems and the presentation of problem solving skills. With regard to the variable concept it was concluded…