Technology and x^x

Abstract

The revolution of technology in education has heralded a new wave of learning styles and in some cases total dependence on technology. Yet, statistics reveal no significant improvement in student performance in Mathematics and a downward trend in basic algebra skills. The major impediment in the learning process is lack of understanding of the concepts and a virtual total dependence on technology. We expose the dangers of total dependence on technology by using the much-ignored function f(x) = x^x as a case study and conclude that technology can be a valuable tool provided the student has complete understanding of related concepts.

Keywords:

• graphing calculator
• domain
• limit

2000 Mathematics Subject Classifications:

• 00A01
• 33B01
• 97A01