Department of Mathematics and
Science Education
Project InterMath:
Middle School Mathematics and
Technology
by
James W. Wilson
Introduction
Good mathematics teaching, meaningful
reform, and genuine improvement of mathematics inststruction
will result only if it is manifested within mathematics classrooms.
The role of the teacher is essential.
The growing nearly universal availability of technology tools
provides a grand opportunity to assist teachers in teaching well
and in improving the mathematics experiences of students.
Other relevant papers.
Potential benefits of appropriate technology
use
Promote better mathematics learning.
Build conceptual understanding
Doing mathematics
investigations
problem solving
applications
exploration
Communication within/about mathematics
New look at some "old" stuff
Doing mathematics not likely to be
encountered without technology
Doing mathematics that incorporates
technology (e.g. iterations)
Self-Confidence about one's mathematics
Generative tools for constructing one's
further mathematics study.
Components of the InterMath
Courses
Mathematics -- 14 units from the areas
of
Number
Algebra
Geometry and Meansurement
Statistics and Data Display
Emphasis on doing mathematics investigations
using technology tools
Technology tools include
Computers
Graphing Calculator 3.5
Geometer's Sketchpad
Excel or other Spreadsheet
Hand held calculators
TI-82, TI-83, TI-84 or other
Internet
Netscape Communicator 7.1 or other
FTP software
Participant's activities and productions
Mathematics Investigations
Write-ups of investigations
Developing lessons to use with students
that incorporate explorations in mathematics and the use of technology
tools.
Putting all productions on a Web Page
for sharing.
InterMath Web Server at Georgia Tech;
InterMath staff at UGa
On-going Support System
Remains available to participants as
a resource and continuing professional activities after the workshop.