Pitfalls and Benefits of the use of Technology in Teaching Mathematics

Miroslaw Majewski

majewski@julia.iium.edu.mo

Inter-University Institute of Macau

Macau

Abstract

In recent years many computer packages that are aimed at helping teachers in teaching, particularly in teaching mathematics, have become available. These new teaching environments are very exciting for most of the teachers but also very confusing. The major questions rise - how do we teach mathematics with these programs, if they are so powerful and can solve almost every mathematical problem? What will the student learn if a program will do everything for him?

In this paper I show some of the major traps that teachers may encounter while using mathematical software for teaching. I also show the major points where a computer program may expand our teaching possibilities and teaching environment. Finally, I will show how both teacher and student may benefit from the use of a mathematical package.

?1999. ATCM, Inc