Algebra at A-Level
Explores questions which arise with computer algebra systems
Key Stage suitability • Explanation
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- KS1
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Computer algebra systems, or symbol manipulators as they are sometimes known, are pieces of software which can be used to solve equations, to factorise or expand algebraic expressions, to differentiate or integrate functions, or indeed to find the result of any problem where there is a routine algorithm which leads to the solution.
Computer algebra systems are produced because they empower people: they save time and therefore money and so, like simple calculators before them, they will soon be widely available.
This book explores a number of questions which will arise when computer algebra systems are widely available...
ISBN 0 900095 96 2
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This book explores a number of questions which will arise when computer algebra systems are widely available. How will we spend the time that we save when certain techniques are redundant? Will we decide that the mathematical concepts are most important and that our students really need a better understanding of the work they are doing? Will we want to spend more time on problem solving? Should we give more emphasis to the notion of proof, or mathematical elegance? What about the study of the historical development and cultural significance of areas of mathematics? Should we pay more attention to the contexts of the problems that we address and encourage our students to make decisions about which computations are necessary and to interpret the results? What should be in the mathematics curriculum?
The remainder of this book makes more detailed suggestions about the wav that the curriculum and assessment may change when all students have a computer algebra system and other software readily available at all times.
For the sake of the discussion we intend to assume that appropriate software is available in the classroom, in the library and at home, wherever it is needed. The students probably have their own customised versions on their laptop or their Palm and this leads to a large degree of student control over the use of the software.
On a discussion about the future, no one can be in a position to give final answers; however, this is not a crystal ball gazing exercise or any kind of fantastic journey; we are simply assuming that, in a few years time, everyone will have access to what is presently available to the few. We hope that this booklet may dispel a few understandable concerns and provide some pointers by describing ways that the benefits of the software can be exploited.
All change at A-Level - time to re-assess.
