This paper reports on the role of the graphing calculator (GC) in the learning of derivatives and instantaneous rate of change. In a longitudinal study, we administered task based interviews before and after the introduction of calculus. We analyzed students' use of the GC in these interviews. This paper reports on the case of one student, Andy,…

A Graphing Calculator (GC) is one of the most portable and affordable technology in mathematics education. It quickens the mechanical procedure in solving mathematical problems and creates a highly interactive learning environment, which makes learning a seemingly difficult subject, easy. Since research on the use of GCs for the teaching and…

The purpose of this study was to investigate how the use of TI-Nspire[TM] could enhance the teaching and learning of calculus. A conceptual framework for the use of TI-Nspire[TM] for learning calculus in a mathematics classroom is proposed that describes the interactions among the students, TI-Nspire[TM], and the learning tasks, and how they lead…

MATLAB is a powerful package for numerical computation. MATLAB contains a rich pool of mathematical functions and provides flexible plotting functions for illustrating mathematical solutions. The course of calculus-based business mathematics consists of two major topics: 1) derivative and its applications in business; and 2) integration and its…

This paper provides an instrumental account of precalculus students' graphical process for solving polynomial inequalities. It is carried out in terms of the students' instrumental schemes as mediated by handheld graphing calculators and in cooperation with their classmates in a classroom setting. The ethnographic narrative relays an instrumental…

The values of a polynomial with integer coefficients can be computed using a graphing calculator, but it is impossible to see the formula itself. Suggests finding this formula from numerical data and describes the unusual way to solve this problem with one calculation only. (Author/NB)

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…

This paper presents teaching strategies and examples developed for a two-semester sequence in quantitative problem solving, specifically outlining a non-calculus derivation of linear regression formulas supported by the graphical display of the TI-83 calculator to visualize the minimization of the sum-squared vertical distances. The paper…

Analyzes the development of one student's understanding of vector magnitude and how her problem solving was mediated by use of the absolute value graphics calculator function. (Contains 35 references.) (Author/ASK)

Describes the different ways in which two pioneering Australian teachers adapted their teaching to use computer algebra systems (CAS). One teacher used CAS with the primary goal of increasing understanding but restricted student use. The other teacher adopted CAS as an extra technique for solving standard problems, emphasizing time saving routines…

Presents an experiment carried out at the University of Groningen where pretest-posttest design was used including two experimental conditions with the graphics calculator (TI-81) and one control condition without the calculator. Results point toward a change in teacher instructional behavior and in pupils' problem-solving approaches. Contains 14…

Explains an application of mathematical modeling within a school setting as well as progressive use of graphing calculators in mathematical modeling. Analyzes students' performances in the process of problem-solving using the problem of baton-passing in relay races. Discusses students' use of their mathematical knowledge and ideas when they used…

Covers a project conducted by the Freudenthal Institute in which observation of student behavior supported the premise that the graphics calculator can stimulate the use of realistic contexts, the exploratory approach to mathematics, a more integrated view of mathematics, and more flexible behavior in problem solving. (AIM)

Presents an overview and discussion of some results of research on the use of graphing calculators organized into the following categories: (1) achievement studies, (2) conceptual understanding, (3) problem solving, (4) classroom dynamics, and (5) future research needed. (29 references) (MKR)

Describes a rugby problem designed to help students understand the maximum-minimum situation. Presents a series of explorations that locate an optimal place for kicking the ball to maximize the angle at the goalposts. Uses interactive geometry software to construct a model of the situation. Includes a sample student activity. (KHR)