[nabs-l] math technology

[Pat Renfranz]

Hi everyone,
I am writing to this list as a mom. I know my kid should be doing the
writing, but it's not happening, so here goes:

My daughter will be taking Algebra II next year in 9th grade, then
she'll move into Pre-calculus for 10th. She's gotten by just fine with
relatively low-tech math tools. We are wondering if it would be useful
for her to start using an accessible graphing calculator. Does anyone
have any practical advice on using one of these programs? I am looking
into the Audio Graphing Calculator from ViewPlus and Math Trax from
NASA. They both produce an audio signal representing the shape of the
function, while the AGC has the advantage of being able to produce
tactile graphs on a Tiger embosser. Maybe there are other products
available?

I’m concerned about training on the software. Did someone teach you to
use the software or did you have to teach yourself? I saw that the
Carroll Center has a tutorial on the AGC; has anyone tried it?

Or did you do ok in advance math without all the bells and whistles?

Thanks in advance for any help,
Pat