This article analyzes an episode of classroom mathematics activity mediated by graphing technology from 3 different theoretical perspectives. An important line of research in the learning sciences focuses on graphs as "inscriptions", foregrounding learners' interactions with and around the material properties of graphical displays.…

To support students' development of concepts in mathematics, the use of technology is often encouraged (Common Core State Standards Initiative [CCSSI] 2010). Technology can contextualize learning and provide a meaningful setting for mathematical ideas. Most teachers are supportive regarding the use of technology to encourage learning and…

When teaching transformations of functions, teachers typically have students vary the coefficients of equations and examine the resulting changes in the graph. This approach, however, may lead students to memorise rules related to transformations. Students need opportunities to think deeply about transformations beyond superficial observations…

This paper reports an instrumental case study of the strategies employed by Year 11 students engaged in solving a functions population task. The task was implemented as part of a study of students studying functions in a Technology-Rich Teaching and Learning Environment (TRTLE). Student strategies related to the perception and enactment of…

An iPad® can be used to teach students to graph parabolas with ease and grasp vocabulary quickly. Parabolas come to life for students in this easily implemented activity described in this article. Teachers can use this tool in a fun and interactive way to not only address these graphing and vocabulary concepts but also introduce and explore…

Graphing bivariate data in a scatter plot and drawing an approximate line of best fit for the data have become commonly recommended activities for middle school and high school students. The graphing calculator has provided a mechanism for students both to approximate a best-fit line and to calculate the best-fit line using a built-in option. Two…

A common activity--having students collect data to measure the radius and circumference of circular objects--can be given a new twist. These data can be viewed virtually using technology. A dynamic geometry environment coupled with the powerful capabilities of a spreadsheet can greatly enhance student learning. The activity in this article…

Middle school mathematics classrooms are changing. The curriculum has changed as well. Instead of an annual return to previously encountered topics, many middle school students encounter mathematics of a varying nature, characterized in "Principles and Standards for School Mathematics" (NCTM 2000) as the five Content Standards of Number and…

Evolving technology has played an important part in a common quadratic-function lesson. Having been mentioned repeatedly in numerous reform documents, a recurring lesson has involved changing the parameters in f(x) = ax[superscript 2] + bx + c and studying the effects on the graph. In both NCTM Yearbooks and NCTM Standards documents, technology is…

The revolution of technology in education has heralded a new wave of learning styles and in some cases total dependence on technology. Yet, statistics reveal no significant improvement in student performance in Mathematics and a downward trend in basic algebra skills. The major impediment in the learning process is lack of understanding of the…

This study investigates the role of graphing calculators in multiple representations for knowledge transfer and the omission of oversimplification in complex function graphs. The main aim is to examine whether graphing calculators were used efficiently to see different cases and multiple perspectives among complex function graphs, or whether…

In this article, the author focuses on possible ways to develop the concepts of joint variation and function through the upper primary and lower secondary years of education. The examples demonstrate the building of a range of important mathematical ideas by modelling life-related situations using students' informal and intuitive knowledge. Over…

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…

Discusses the use of Calculator Based Ranger (CBR) in mathematics classrooms. Provides a classroom activity in which students graph walking in different directions and speeds. Presents student work and testing. (ASK)

Examines the impact of the recent shift towards calculating and computing tools on the nature of learning in traditionally difficult curriculum area. Focuses on the use of graphic calculators by undergraduates taking an innovative new mathematics course at Open University. Indicates that graphic calculator technology acted as a critical mediator…