Being that technology is an ever-present part of our society, it has also become part of the mathematics classroom. From calculators, basic ones (4-function) to ones that use Computer Algebra Systems (graphing calculators) to software such as Geometer's Sketchpad, the use of technology is being implemented increasingly in today's classrooms. However, there is much debate on whether the technology helps or hurts students. In the attached article, this topic of debate is discussed with research to back it up.
The article is about studies that have been conducted to show if calculators are helpful or detrimental to students. It explains that some hesitancy comes from fear, as well as ignorance of not knowing how to use them. It also gives parameters of certain studies done, as well as their results. The article does show that not only can students benefit from calculators, but they can also develop a better attitude towards mathematics. The article also mentions that the standard pencil-and-paper method can be enhanced with the use of a graphing calculator, and that understanding of concepts can deepen with a calculator. Since one of the bigger concerns in the classroom are achievement tests, this article reports that scores on achievement tests for algebra and calculus are higher with the use of a calculator.
I found this article pretty fascinating, since I wasn't introduced to a graphing calculator until I reached college. That may also be due, in part, to the fact that I graduated high school in 1996 when technology wasn't emphasized nearly as much as it is today. In my personal opinion, I do think that calculators can only help in the classroom. Not only do they help cut down on time spent doing long calculations, but actually being able to see the result helped me understand graphs better.
To view the article, click here: http://mathforum.org/technology/papers/papers/dunham.html
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