This paper presents three activities on how to analyze rates of change in real-life situations using TI-83 calculators and computer-based laboratories. Activities include 24 hour temperature data, the temperature of a light bulb, and an M&M toss. Each section contains descriptions of equipment/materials, data collection, and data analysis. The…

As part of the Electrical Engineering program at the Univesity of Southern Maine, students are typically introduced to Two's Complement algebra and representation, a method to include negative numbers in the binary representation of integers that is widely used in microprocessors and related digital systems. The traditional, procedural method to…

This issue of Mathematics Education Dialogues focuses on the use of calculators in the mathematics classroom. The eleven articles on this theme include: (1) "Groping and Hoping for a Consensus on Calculator Use" (Zalman Usiskin); (2) "Let's Abolish Pencil-and-Paper Arithmetic" (Anthony Ralston); (3) "Do We Need Calculators?" (Kim Mackey); (4) "How…

A method is described for finding those numbers which are both triangular and square (named trisqy numbers). A program for a programmable calculator is given, as well as a proof. (MNS)

A method for finding logarithms is outlined. Four-function calculators are used to simplify the computation for those who enjoy experimenting with numbers. (MNS)

A procedure for helping students to calculate logarithms with any calculator that has a square root function is outlined. (MNS)

Provided are some ideas on teaching elementary numerical methods to sixth-form students. Comments are included on the syllabus recently introduced at Advanced Level in Hong Kong. (MNS)

This brief review of research on calculators indicates that they will not harm achievement and that they are helpful in problem solving and for teaching other mathematical ideas. (MNS)

A procedure using calculators is described to test Ulam's conjecture that all positive integers converge to 1, if subject to certain iterated transformations. (MNS)

Presents the uses of pocket calculators, programmable calculators, and microcomputers in teaching of statistical physics in unit 9 of the Nuffield advanced physics course. (SK)

Suggests and illustrates ways in which systematic consideration of selected unary operations can be facilitated by using electronic calculators. Emphasis is placed upon unary operations suitable for exploration and investigation at the pre-algebra level, using calculation algorithms as a basis for generating examples and non-examples to develop…

Presents programmable calculator solutions to selected problems, including area moments of inertia and principal values, the 2-D principal stress problem, C.G. and pitch inertia computations, 3-D eigenvalue problems, 3 DOF vibrations, and a complex flutter determinant. (SK)

A community college mathematics course is discussed in terms of type of student, content and goals. Particular attention is given to the role of the calculator in community college remedial mathematics courses. (MK)

A distinction is made between estimation and checking, and an analysis of standard errors made on calculators when pupils are checking answers is given. (MP)