First impressions

In this module you get first impressions how to use technology in the classroom. Two technologies will be used:

TI-Nspire™	trial software available	Both programs/tools connect: geometry software, function plotter, spreadsheet and computer algebra.
	free download

	TI-Nspire™ offers these functionalities as parallel and equivalent applications. In addition to the computer program there is also a handheld for TI-Nspire™ .
	In GeoGebra the graphic screen of geometry and the function graphs come to the fore and spreadsheets as well as computer algebra tools are additive, which can be opened from the graphic screen.

Requested in many curricula

The use of these types of programs/tools is requested in many curricula for learning and teaching mathematics. With good cause, because they provide many opportunities that may be helpful for teaching and learning mathematics. Mathematical problems can be worked out simultaneously in different representations, which make the solution process more interesting and multifarious.

Different representations

The different representations facilitate a multi-modal and individual access to mathematics.
Many "typical working methods" (solving equations, geometrical constructions, working with graphs of functions) can be characterized in a different way. The possibility to change mathematical objects in a dynamical way offers the chance to discover mathematical relationships. Therefore the use of these types of programs offers many opportunities to integrate student-centered work and sustainable and meaningful visualizations in the classroom. Which potential the medium actually develops, depends on the way it is used by the teacher. It is a big challenge for teachers and learners to include new technologies in the classroom.

Optimization problems in this module

This module is intended to be a guide to help you being prepared for the challenge and to facilitate the work with these technologies in your classroom. The focus is on simple optimization problems which can be solved in a graphical, geometrical, algebraic and, numerical way. In this module you get to know the function plotter, the spreadsheet, the geometry software and you may also use the computer algebra system.
For this purpose, the various optimization problems (Example 1-3) should be solved in different ways (including a graphical, geometrical, algebraic and numerical way) by using the new technologies. At the same time you will be introduced to the main functions of GeoGebra and TI-Nspire™. Additionally you will not only get to know the relevant technology but you will also pick up first ideas for the classroom - for this purpose specific information and experiences is provided.