Using maple, maple 3D graphics, and tablet PC to teach calculus II and III

Abstract

This paper presents a project that is in its preliminary stage at the University of North Georgia, which aims to efficiently increase student engagement and support teachers' instructional needs. The ultimate goal of the project is to create engaging math learning models that will make the learning environment fun and attractive. The main goal of the project is to develop effective math learning models and use them to enhance students' performance. By applying Maple, a cutting-edge Computer Algebra Systems (CAS), and other digital tools (Tablet PC's) for teaching and learning of mathematics, these models can: (1) make mathematics learning interesting and meaningful while still covering the original contents; (2) simplify abstract mathematics concepts and make them easy to understand; and (3) bridge mathematics and science and motivate students to seek science careers. In class room we use Microsoft OneNote on the Tablet PC and combine it with a Digital Projector. Maple 3D graphs are easily imported to class notes and we can archive and share our lecture notes. The models are carefully designed to provide students with the chance to explore mathematical issues that are infeasible to address in the classroom and improve their performance in mathematics and prepare them to for advanced science and engineering courses. The model also balances this capability by allowing students to modify selected parts of the MPLE worksheet for a given problem and guide them to design new procedure, and are thus get them to use Maple features to perform application tasks. We also explore whether using these tools will positively affect student engagement in the classroom in addition to aiding them in the long term development of a deep conceptual understanding of mathematics.