Arguments for and against the use of computers in mathematics classes have centered on whether students benefit from or are merely hindered by practicing computational skills. This paper claims that the true essence of mathematics lies not in computation, basically a mechanical operation, but in problem-solving. Since no amount of computational…

Some insights are provided into techniques for removing the mystery of how calculators evaluate functions. (Author/MK)

The papers in this report represent the imagination, analysis, and experiences of many people involved in recent curricular studies in secondary school mathematics. It differs from reports that seek broad agreement on conservative, traditional curricula, representing instead the point of view of those working with emerging electronic technology…

The Fibonacci Sequence describes a vast array of phenomena from nature. Computer scientists have discovered and used many algorithms which can be classified as applications of Fibonacci's sequence. In this article, several of these applications are considered. (PK)

The first aim in school might be to help children become more aware of the algorithmic processes they use; then, ensure that they can devise algorithms and define them. Many examples of how these aims can be met are given, including the use of calculators and computers. (MNS)

This article illustrates how questions from elementary finance can serve as motivation for studying high order powers, roots, and exponential functions using Logo procedures. A second discussion addresses a relatively unknown algorithm for the trigonometric exponential and hyperbolic functions. (PK)

The article discusses the use of computers to teacher college level mathematics. In particular, the Gaussian elimination procedure for solving a system of n linear equations in n unknowns, using a computer, is examined. (PK)

Suggestions are given for having students write or modify computer programs for listing prime positive integers and continued fractions, to help them discover mathematical concepts. Sample programs are included. (MNS)

Presents an algorithm to estimate pi by approximating a unit circle with a sequence of inscribed regular polygons. Demonstrates the application of the algorithm with a hand-held calculator and an Apple computer. Provides a program to calculate pi in Pascal programing language. (12 references) (MDH)

Parts one and two of a one-year computer-oriented calculus course (without analytic geometry) are presented. The ideas of calculus are introduced and motivated through computer (i.e., algorithmic) concepts. An introduction to computing via algorithms and a simple flow chart language allows the book to be self-contained, except that material on…

The article considers the problem of how to plot on the computer screen a circle with center (A,B) and radius R. Several different procedures are discussed and compared. (PK)

This paper reports on one high school's experience with a project to teach students how to program and solve problems in mathematics using a computer. Part I is intended as a general guide for any high school administrator or mathematics instructor who is interested in exploring the installation of a computer terminal in his high school and wants…

This document serves as Volume II of a two-part course designed to improve mathematical proficiency and understanding as the student is given practice in relevant problem-solving situations. It includes the mathematics skills needed to make sound consumer decisions. The purpose of this course is to review, reinforce and extend concepts learned in…