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Math Learning Issues
"How can I ..." | | |
 Computation Technology
What is it?
Computation Technology includes
calculators and computer applications
that perform calculation, including
spreadsheets, graphing software, and
modelling applications.
Where do I find it?
Calculators are a standard tool that all
children should have. Scientific
calculators are necessary at the least,
and graphing calculators should be used
for higher level math starting at Algebra.
Examples of computer applications
include:
f(g) Scholar:
http://www.futuregraph.com
LiveMath:
http://www.livemath.com
Math Xpert:
http://www.mathxpert.com
Microsoft Excel
Professional Comments
According to Dr. Dave Moursund in his
article "Computers and Mathematics
Education," published in Volume 22
Number 8 of Learning and Leading with
Technology, solving math problems
involves 4 steps: (1) Modeling a problem
using the vocabulary and notation of
mathematics, (2) Solving the math, (3) Un-modelling by putting the solution back
into a statement about the problem, and
(4) Determining if the problem was solved
or if it needs to be re-posed and resolved.
Students spend the majority of their time
(about 80%) on step 2, the actual
calculations. This means that less time
is spent learning "problem solving" itself.
Thus, most students have difficulty taking
a word or real-world problem and solving it
mathematically, but are proficient in
solving a symbolic expression.
However, calculators and computers can
easily and quickly perform the actual
calculations once a student has put a
problem into the symbolic language of
math. Students will need to be proficient
in solving problems, not doing
calculations, in their future of higher level
math classes and the post-school world.
Allowing students to use calculators and
computers to perform calculations will
enable them to spend more time learning
and practicing problem solving.
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