This paper investigates the effects of a computer algebra system (DERIVE) on students' comprehension and computational skills in Brief Calculus, a first course for non-mathematics majors. Research results indicate better conceptual understanding by the group using DERIVE without the loss of pen-and-paper computational ability. (KHR)

Discusses an old technique going back to Euler for accelerating the convergence of an alternating series. Uses a computer algebra system such as Derive, Maple, or Mathematica to implement this method called Eulerization. Argues that investigations using this technique will improve a student's understanding of infinite series. (ASK)

Reviews tasks and techniques to help students develop an appropriate instrumental genesis for algebra and functions to prepare for calculus. Focuses on the potential of the calculator to connect enactive representations and theoretical calculus. Discusses strategies to help students experiment with symbolic concepts in calculus. (Contains 32…

Discusses the Texas Instruments calculator the TI-92 and how it can be an effective tool in the mathematics classroom. Provides examples of combining the algebra capabilities of the calculator and Cabri-Geometry II with graphing, tables of values, statistics, programming, and a simple text editor to enhance mathematics instruction. (DDR)

Reviewed are two computer software packages for Macintosh microcomputers including "Phase Portraits," an exploratory graphics tool for studying first-order planar systems; and "MacMath," a set of programs for exploring differential equations, linear algebra, and other mathematical topics. Features, ease of use, cost, availability, and hardware…

Reviewed are 11 studies reported in Dissertation Abstracts International for Social Sciences in 1989. Topics include problem solving, mathematics education, LOGO computer language, implementation of instructional computing, algebra, effects of differential grouping on learning science skills, simulations, and graphing as they relate to the use of…

Presented are two reasons discouraging computer symbol manipulation systems use in school mathematics at present: cost for computer laboratories or expensive pocket computers; and impracticality of exact solution representations. Although development with this technology in mathematics education advances, graphing calculators are recommended to…

Despite the effectiveness of computer-mediated instructional (CMI) materials, relatively little use is made of technology in mainstream college teaching. This article examines why CMI materials are not widely used; the mediated learning model that embeds CMI materials within a computer-mediated, communication-rich instructional environment; and…

Outlines a course at the University of Glamorgan in the United Kingdom in which a computer algebra system (CAS) teaches mathematical modeling. The format is based on continual assessment of group and individual work stating the problem, a feature list, and formulation of the models. No additional mathematical word processing package is necessary.…

Demonstrates the use of technology to enhance the appreciation of applications involving abstract algebra. The symbolic manipulator Maple can perform computations required for a linear cryptosystem. One major benefit of this process is that students can encipher and decipher messages using a linear cryptosystem without becoming confused and…

Investigates the construction of understanding of the motion of an object down an inclined plane which takes place through the process of model building in an integrated algebra, trigonometry, and physics class. Discusses four major themes related to student learning through modeling that emerged from the results. Discusses implications for…

Calculus must evolve or face the prospect of becoming irrelevant. The minimum level of classroom technology now available requires us to rethink the content of our calculus courses. Proposes using graphing calculators and computer algebra systems to include the following topics: local linearity, optimization problems, families of curves, and…

Describes investigative choices made and strategies used by students to solve problems in classrooms that provided access to a computer algebra system (CAS). Reports that technology-neutral mathematics questions were attempted by approximately equal numbers of students using CAS and traditional paper and pencil. Reveals that students who used the…

A conference proceedings on mathematics education research contained the following keynote addresses: "Doing and Constructing Mathematics in Screen-Space" (Mason); "Students' Understanding of Geometry: Theoretical Perspectives" (Pegg); "The Australian Research Council and its Role in Supporting Education Research"…

This paper argues that using Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) to teach 12- to 18-year-old students is going to change teaching methods, the content of what has been taught, and exams. Traditional exam questions are analyzed and categorized according to their usefulness in a CAS environment. The goal is to give teachers new perspectives with which to…