Functions and data: First Steps in Personal Technology

Abstract

Graphics calculators today have a range of capabilities with a corresponding range of costs and thus of affordability. This hands-on workshop will focus on the significance for mathematics education of relatively unsophisticated and hence relatively inexpensive graphics calculators. We will use an introductory level Casio calculator, designed for school use throughout the secondary school years. Activities will concentrate on two of the most useful aspects of a graphics calculator: the study of functions and elementary data analysis. The graphics calculator is a powerful learning tool for students in either of these areas. The workshop will also indicate how these two areas of study can be linked together naturally through the technology. No previous experience with this or other calculators will be assumed.