Technology in Mathematics

1. NCTM Position It is essential that teachers and students have regular access to technologies that support and advance mathematical sense making, reasoning, problem solving, and communication. Effective teachers optimize the potential of technology to develop students’ understanding, stimulate their interest, and increase their proficiency in mathematics. When teachers use technology strategically, they can provide greater access to mathematics for all students.

2. supports both the learning of mathematical procedures and skills, as well as the development of advanced mathematical proficiencies

2.1. such as problem solving, reasoning, and justifying

3. teacher and the curriculum play critical role in mediating

3.1. must be knowledgeable decision makers, skilled in determining when and how technology can enhance students’ learning appropriately and effectively

4. All schools and mathematics programs should provide students and teachers with access to instructional technology

4.1. including classroom hardware, handheld and lab-based devices with mathematical software and applications, and Web-based resources

4.1.1. together with adequate training to ensure its effective use.

5. In addition to enriching students’ experiences as learners of mathematics, use of these tools maximizes the possibilities afforded by students’ increasing knowledge about and comfort with technology-driven means of communication and information retrieval

6. Content specific

6.1. include: computer algebra systems; dynamic geometry environments; interactive applets; handheld computation, data collection, and analysis devices; and computer-based applications

6.1.1. support students in exploring and identifying mathematical concepts and relationships.

7. Content neutral

7.1. include: communication and collaboration tools and Web based digital media

7.1.1. increase students’ access to information, ideas, and interactions that can support and enhance sense making

7.1.1.1. central to the process of taking ownership of knowledge.