Mathematical Modelling at the Secondary/Tertiary Interface with the Graphics Calculator

Abstract

Milton Fuller Mathematics Learning Centre Central Queensland University Rockhampton, Queensland Australia Abstract for Workshop Mathematical modelling is increasingly becoming an essential component of high school and first year undergraduate mathematics curricula. The workshop will provide participants with the opportunity to explore the features of the Hewlett Packard HP38G graphics calculator. In particular, investigations will include: § The development and application of wave models using periodic functions. § Fitting various models to population census data. § Modelling the size of efficient committees. A class set of HP38G calculators will be available for use in this workshop. It is assumed that participants will have a knowledge of periodic, exponential and logarithmic functions.