investigate number and graphing patterns, geometric relationships, and different representations;
to simulate situations; and to extend problem solving. When students use calculators and
computers in mathematics, they need to know when it is appropriate to apply their mental
computation, reasoning, and estimation skills to predict and check answers.
The computer and the calculator should be seen as important problem-solving tools to be
used for many purposes. Computers and calculators are tools of mathematicians, and students
should be given opportunities to select and use the particular applications that may be helpful
to them as they search for their own solutions to problems.
Students may not be familiar with the use of some of the technologies suggested in the curriculum.
When this is the case, it is important that teachers introduce their use in ways that
build students’ confidence and contribute to their understanding of the concepts being investigated.
Students also need to understand the situations in which the new technology would be
an appropriate choice of tool. Students’ use of the tools should not be laborious or restricted
to inputting or following a set of procedures. For example, when using spreadsheets and
dynamic statistical software (e.g., TinkerPlots), teachers could supply students with prepared
data sets, and when using dynamic geometry software (e.g., The Geometer’s Sketchpad), they
could use pre-made sketches so that students’ work with the software would be focused on the
mathematics related to the data or on the manipulation of the sketch, not on the inputting of
data or the designing of the sketch.
Computer programs can help students to collect, organize, and sort the data they gather, and
to write, edit, and present reports on their findings. Whenever appropriate, students should be
encouraged to select and use the communications technology that would best support and
communicate their learning. Students, working individually or in groups, can use computers,
CD-ROM technology, and/or Internet websites to gain access to Statistics Canada, mathematics
organizations, and other valuable sources of mathematical information around the world