Electronic Proceedings
of the 12th Asian Technology Conference in Mathematics
Abstract for 12820
Learning
about derivatives using a graphics calculator
Authors: Barry Kissane
Affiliations: Murdoch University
Keywords: Novice, Undergraduate
Level, K-12 Level, calculus,
calculators,
teaching, learning
Graphics
calculators offer a number of opportunities for introductory calculus students
to explore significant concepts associated with derivatives. In this hands-on
workshop, we will use the Casio fx-9860G graphics calculator to investigate
some of these possibilities and to consider their implications for teaching and
learning calculus and the curriculum in early calculus. It will be suggested
that the development of the concepts is of key importance and should precede
extensive work with symbolic manipulation. Previous experience with this
calculator will not be assumed.