Graphic Calculators and Mathematical Modeling in a Program for Preservice Mathematics Teachers

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to show the result of a study developed under the program assessment methodology. A basic training program for mathematics teachers is presented, designed and assessed which focuses on the educational use of mathematical modeling and the graphic calculator for the teaching of linear algebra. The study participants were students in their last year of their mathematics degree course at the Faculty of Science at the University of Granada, Spain. Program assessment reported changes in the participants' didactic knowledge which was seen in the design of teaching activities with an algebraic content with the incorporation of the TI-92 graphic calculator and the mathematical modeling process.