It is great to see this listserv being used to discuss ways of
integrating the technologies into our mathematics curricula. Views have
been divergent and interesting. The posting by RWW Taylor suggested a
slant that I support. That is, the technologies can be used to
significantly extend the understanding of mathematics concepts and
problem solving techniques. The examples RWW suggested are only the tip
of the iceberg. Software such as Scientific Notebook ($60US) will force
us to deal with the new reality that we need to (and can) do so much
more than teach algorithmic routines for algebraic manipulations with
simple expressions (most common algorithms, e.g. factoring a quadratic
trinomial, only address simple "academic" examples). Real world
expressions aren't usually factorable!
While a certain level of algebraic skills is necessary (but I'm not sure
where that level is), perhaps it is time to consider the possibilities
if course time was spent stressing concepts and problem solving rather
than algorithmic technique. Computer algebra is the technique we ought
to be stressing. This would allow the time to explore concepts
thoroughly and develop problem solving skills.
RWW Taylor wrote:
> SNIP
> However, I think an important point, or opportunity, is being lost
> sight of.
>
> SNIP
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