| Abstract: |
This report surveys the use of technology in mathematics at New Jersey's community colleges. Of the 19 colleges contacted, 16 responded. The first section discusses the use of graphics calculators in mathematics courses. A table summarizes the courses in which graphics calculators are used, whether they are recommended or required, and the brands used. The most widely used machine is Texas Instruments' TI-82/83, which most students buy at the store and use for upper-level math courses such as calculus or algebra. The next section of the report addresses computer use in mathematics courses. Of the 15 colleges who use technology, three do not use computers, only calculators. Both basic and advanced mathematics courses were found to use computers, with DERIVE, an easy-to-use computer algebra system that incorporates graphing and symbolic manipulation, being the most popular program. The report concludes with a discussion on Internet use, the availability of technology facilities and services on the surveyed campuses, and problems or comments regarding technology use in mathematics courses. A list of colleges responding to the survey, as well as the technology usage survey itself, are also provided. (YKH) |