Creating interactive spreadsheet modules for precalculus and
beyond
Revathi Narasimhan
Kean University
Union, NJ
The spreadsheet software is widely available and easy to learn, but is
an under-utilized resource for teaching mathematics.
In this presentation, we will illustrate how powerful a spreadsheet can
be for creating interactive learning materials. Topics will include
graphing, exploring rates of change, exploring the Fundamental Theorem
of Calculus, applications of calculus, and probability simulations. We
will particularly focus on how the nature of the spreadsheet lends
itself easily to demonstrating the symbolic, numerical and graphical
representation of a function.
A well designed interactive learning module makes abstract mathematical
ideas accessible as well show how these ideas can be applied in a
variety of contexts. This talk will give examples of how this can be
done. We will give examples of materials that appear in two stages:
1) Tutorial stage - these explore one or two main concepts, using new
spreadsheet commands as needed. The tutorials can be used as in-class
activities in the course and can also be used as homework assignments.
Instructors may find these tutorials helpful in designing lectures which
incorporate computer presentations.
2) Project stage - the project worksheets are more complex in scope and
require a synthesis of the various topics covered in the course and in
the tutorials.
All examples given in the presentation will be available from the
presenter's web site. Participants can use these examples as a base to
create their own interactive materials.