THE RISE AND FALL OF A MATHEMATICA-BASED CALCULUS CURRICULUM REFORM MOVEMENT

ABSTRACT

In the Fall semester of 1993 the Mathematics Department at Indiana University of Pennsylvania implemented a Mathematica-based calculus curriculum. This paper profiles the preparation done during the year prior to implementation and the curriculum selection process. A summary of the problems encountered in the first year and the resulting modifications for the subsequent semesters are given. Calculus topics where the use of Mathematica and/or the CALCULUS & Mathematica curriculum appear to be particularly beneficial or particularly ineffective are outlined. The paper also summarizes the assessment of the curriculum implementation, some of the factors that contributed to its demise, and strategies to follow for a more successful experience.

KEYWORDS:

• Calculus reform
• CALCULUS&Mathematica
• technology