Main presenter			Co-presenter(s)
Name :	Rae  Thiel		Name:	Dr. Mara Alagic
E-mail:	raethiel@wcsks.com		E-mail:	mara.alagic@wichita.edu
Institution or Company:	Wichita Collegiate School		Name:
Department:	mathematics		E-mail:
City:	Wichita		Name:
State/Province:	Kansas		E-mail:
Country:	USA		Name:
Type of presentation:	Lecture :  50 minutes.		E-mail:
Conference strand and number:	Derive & TI-CAS  ,    Number: D25		Schedule:   Room:	Saturday, 14h00   1520
Related website:
Title of presentation:	TI-Based Learning Environments: Developing Conceptual Understandings of Functions-related Concept
Abstract:
The study occurred in three graphing calculators based Precalculus classes. Two intertwined aspects were considered. The first aspect dealt with enabling students to build a stronger conceptual understanding of functions and related concepts and the second was to study what conditions provide for a successful learning environment utilizing graphing calculators. The key factors identified and applied were: long-term exposure to ill-structured problems; writing about the concepts; the teacher answering questions with appropriate questions/prompts to provide for scaffolding; cooperative learning; and the teacher’s proficiency with graphing calculator. The students developed a deeper understanding of the concepts and they were more willing to attempt complex problems. Their communication skills improved. The study indicates that problem-based learning in a technology oriented environment provides appropriate conditions for developing critical thinking and communication skills. This paper reports on advantages and challenges encountered in (a) “covering curriculum” and (b) building students’ confidence in this technology-based learning environment.