Mid-South Instructional Technology Conference
Teaching, Learning, & Technology
Transforming the Learning Environment
April 4-6, 2004
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Mary B. Martin Track 1 - Effective Technology-Based Learning Resources |
Abstract
Within the mathematical community, technology has become a part of what we do in every class. Particularly important to Freshman and Sophomore level classes, the balance between ease of learning and providing necessary tools is critical. Another non-pedagogical factor is cost and accessibility. This presentation will briefly review and compare the features of the current TI-83 silver edition, Scientific Notebook, and the new software available for PalmOS PDA’s. The learning curve for the technology and total cost will be discussed as well as ease of use.
Description
The mathematical community has agreed somewhat universally that the teaching of College Algebra, Precalculus and Calculus needs to be accompanied by the appropriate use of technology. This decision was not easy to make, and is constantly being reviewed as new technology needs to be accepted or rejected. Recent developments in computer algebra systems, web requirements and usage, and hardware/software advances are making a new sequence of decisions necessary.
This presentation will provide a comparison of and overview of the most used technologies in College Algebra and Calculus as well as provide an up-to-date analysis of the individual features. The technologies to be examined will include:
*TI-83 Silver calculator – the graphing calculator most used in the high school market.
*TI-89 Calculator – more used at the college level, this is a calculator that includes computer algebra systems.
*Scientific Notebook – Maple-based, this software package has a speedy learning curve and some restrictions on what it can do.
*PDA software – New software is on the market which will allow a Palm OS PDA to function essentially as a graphing calculator equivalent.
An analysis of cost, feasibility, features, and flexibility will be presented along with a matrix of factors which will allow audience members to conduct their own analysis about the viability and desirability of these different technologies. Up-coming changes in available technologies make this analysis of primary importance for the next one-two years.