Issues and Problems

"Technology is essential in teaching and learning mathematics... The existence, versitilty, and power of technology make it possible and neccessary to reexamine what mathematics students should learn as well as how they can best learn it" (NCTM)

"Principles and standards for school Mathematics" were released in 2000 by the National Concil of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). Six principles, 5 content standards, and 5 process standards.

Equity

Curriculum

Teaching

Learning

Assessment

Technology

Numbers and Operations

Algebra, Geometry

Measurement

Data Analysis

Probability

Problem Solving

Reasoning and Proof

Communication

Connections

Representations

Technology can serve as a catalyst in helping teachers move toward an instructional style of teaching which is student centered.

Technology provides students with the opportunity to visualize and make more concrete the generally abstract world of matematics.

Three implications in selection of technology for teachers.

1. Appropriate combination of on & off computer activities

2. Technology should be considered a math tool and not a pedagogical tool

3. Technology should be used as a tool to develop student thinking

"Math wars" remain unsolved

Conflict between teacher-directed and constructivist learning

Technology is available to support both methods

Recent research points to students learning Math better using constructivist approach. (Kinach)