Impact of Hand-Held Technology for Understanding Linear Equations and Graphs

This article describes a research project that examined the impact of hand-held technology on students' understanding linear equations and graphs in multiple representations. The results indicated that students in the graphing-approach classes were significantly better at the components of interpreting. No significant differences between the graphing-approach and traditional classes were found fur translation, modeling, and algebraic skills. Further, students in the graphing-approach classes showed significant improvements in their attitudes toward mathematics and technology, were less anxious about mathematics, and rated their class as more interesting and valuable.