Calculator-Based
Laboratory/Calculator-Based Ranger (CBL/CBR)
These
are data collection devices that are used with graphing calculators and
allow teachers to integrate real life situations and scientific experiments
with mathematics. The devices measure temperature, speed, light, distance,
velocity, acceleration, force, EKG and motion. Once the data is collected
it is then loaded into the graphing calculator to be analyzed. There
are activities and lessons available for math and science.
Geometer's
SketchPad
The Geometer's
Sketchpad is an exploration and construction tool developed for Geometry
but can also be used to explore algebra, trigonometry, calculus, art and
science. Sketchpad can be utilized in almost any classroom with at
least one computer. It can be used with an overhead projector, one
computer in a classroom or a computer lab. Sketchpad figures and
measurements can be also be incorporated in animation or QuickTime movies.
The Houston
I. S. D. has licensing privileges for this program but I recently attended
a workshop presentation for Geometry Teachers and very few teachers were
using the program or knew where to find Sketchpad on their campuses.
I believe this is a widespread issue and concern. Schools and school
districts must do a better job of cataloging, checking out and maintaining
updates of software.
The
Math Forum
The Math
Forum is an online community hosted by Swarthmore College. This site is
a one stop cornucopia of information for students, parents and educators.
The site offers math resources, from lesson plans to 'Ask Dr. Math' as
well as opportunities to research and discuss math education and key issues
in math.
Neufeld
Understanding Series
The Neufeld
Learning System, Understanding Math programs present math concepts like
Algebra, Equation Solving, Fractions and Exponents with a foundation of
concrete experiences. The programs allow students grades 5 to 10
to work with manipulatives, complete practice sets and cumulative checks
in various grouping situations. The company also provides handouts
and activities for away from the computer which allows for the effective
use of limited computer stations. Neufeld also provides worksheets
and lesson plans that are stored in Adobe Acrobat Portable Document Format
(PDF) and can be used in correlation with the Understanding software series.
The
Rice University School Mathematics Project (RUSMP)
RUSMP
was established in 1987 to serve as a bridge between the Rice University
mathematics research community and Houston area teachers of mathematics.
RUSMP offers many professional development opportunities for teachers and
provides support to schools and school districts in the greater Houston
area.
ZapMe!
The ZapMe!
netspace is a satellite delivery-based computer network system that provides
Internet access and aggregated educational content to K - 12 schools across
the United States. This netspace was developed to better prepare
students for their future in the digital information age by providing Internet
access, computer equipment and aggregated education content to schools
at no cost. ZapMe! provides the school with network software, a satellite
dish and wiring, a high performance server, 15 PCs, and a printer and is
able to bring the Internet to schools at no cost through partnerships with
leading technology companies including Dell, Microsoft, Philips, The Learning
Company, GE Americom, Gilat, StarBurst, and Toshiba. More than 10,000
pre-selected educational sites have been included on the ZapMe! netspace
for students and teachers to access.
The ZapMe!
Corporation is contributing a great deal to facilitate the use of technology
tools and information in the classroom. Their system addresses two
issues that face almost every teacher and school district in the U.S.,
primarily the cost factor and the overwhelming amount of unfiltered, questionable
information that is available online.