Accession Number:

ADA280996

Title:

Integrating Computers into Calculus Instruction

Descriptive Note:

Master's thesis

Corporate Author:

NAVAL POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL MONTEREY CA

Personal Author(s):

• Christensen, Jon L.
• Pierson, Brian E.

Report Date:

1994-03-01

Pagination or Media Count:

109.0

Abstract:

Visualization is key in helping a student understand the fundamentals of Calculus. The new generation of computer literate students, raised in a video-based environment, will expect more than the traditional chalkboard methods in assisting them in this visualization. By integrating computers into the classroom and developing software to assist in mathematics instruction, we can enhance student comprehension of, and ability to apply, mathematics in solving real world problems of interest to the military. As evidenced by the success of both the Apple Macintosh and Windows software, mouse driven, graphical user interfaces GUIs represent a powerful and frequently-used tool in the computing environment. GUIs improve the visual capabilities in computing software, simplify program execution, and reduce the time required to become proficient with the software. When designed correctly, the GUI-based software can significantly improve the way in which people interact with computers. This thesis lays the framework and develops multi-platform GUI software modules needed for the instruction of Calculus. Graphical user interface, Multi- platform, Portability, Color look up table, Point and click

Descriptors:

• *TEACHING METHODS
• *INTERACTIVE GRAPHICS
• *CALCULUS
• SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
• STUDENTS
• PROBLEM SOLVING
• WINDOWS
• INSTRUCTIONS
• COMPREHENSION
• MAN COMPUTER INTERFACE
• VISUAL PERCEPTION
• COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
• TIME
• THESES
• COGNITION

Subject Categories:

• Humanities and History
• Numerical Mathematics
• Computer Programming and Software
• Human Factors Engineering and Man Machine Systems

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE