Appropriate uses for graphics calculators in precalculus and calculus are discussed. The functions of Casio, Sharp, and Hewlett-Packard brand calculators are stressed. A "Stress Test" for graphics calculators designed to illustrate common errors and to furnish examples of tasks which cannot be completed on these instruments is provided.…

Discusses the interactions between technology and research in mathematics education, including computer-assisted instruction, role of technology in learning, use of computer environments to study students' mathematical concept formation, research methodologies, interactive technologies, and lack of technology-related research in the "Journal…

Examines the struggles of Kyle, a 30-year-old male, to overcome his innumeracy and to master the routine numerical tasks associated with daily life. Describes Kyle's arithmetic and problem-solving skills and the intervention program designed to develop his ability to solve everyday problems. (Contains 12 references.) (MDH)

Demonstrates how graphing calculators can be used by students to solve equations involving absolute value. Allows students to make connections between the algebraic and graphical representations of the problem. (MDH)

Discusses the use of graphing calculators by middle school students in an enrichment program for economically disadvantaged students and describes exercises to help students develop an understanding of variables and functions. (MKR)

Describes the use of the Texas Instruments' calculator-based laboratory (CBL) and Vernier accelerometer for measuring the vector sum of the gravitational field and the acceleration of amusement park rides. (JRH)

Two trigonometry problems are presented. The first compares the graphs of the functions arcsin[sin(x)], arccos[cos(x)], and the identity function f(x)=x. The second, using the law of cosines, demonstrates that the solution of a triangle knowing two sides and the excluded angle is no longer ambiguous. (MDH)

Presents activities utilized with primary teachers to alleviate instructional concerns about using calculators and provide reasons for using calculators in their mathematics instruction. Activities address the topics of estimation, number sense, numeration, whole number and fraction operations, probability, and problem solving. (MDH)

A sampling of teachers (n=348) and principals (n=31) responded to a questionnaire designed to assess their beliefs about the effects of, experiences with, and impediments to calculator usage in elementary school mathematics. Results indicated that teachers expressed concern regarding negative effects of extensive calculator usage on mathematical…

Presents a calculator method to investigate the effects of varying parameters within mathematical functions in relationship to the accompanying changes in the family of their graphical representations. Suggests that the popularity of this activity makes it equally suitable for high school second-year algebra classes, preservice mathematics…

Discusses ways that calculators and computer microworlds, such as LOGO and Shape Makers, can be used as tools for exploration, problem solving, and empowerment in school mathematics. Includes suggestions for classroom activities. (Contains 12 references.) (MKR)

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)

This article explores the multiple representations (verbal, algebraic, graphical, and numerical) that can be used to study the golden ratio. Emphasis is placed on using technology (both calculators and computers) to investigate the algebraic, graphical, and numerical representations. (JAF)

Describes the ChemKits initiative devised by private colleges in Kansas to help high school science teachers meet their needs for laboratory equipment. Discusses conclusions from three years of running the ChemKits teacher-education program. (WRM)

Reviews three projects that use a graphing calculator linked to a calculator-based laboratory device as a portable data-collection system for students in chemistry classes. Projects include Isolation, Purification and Quantification of Buckminsterfullerene from Woodstove Ashes; Determination of the Activation Energy Associated with the…