Math and Math Teaching Majors may demonstrate proficiency with technology by assembling a portfolio according to the following guidelines.  Satisfactory completion of the portfolio as outlined below will fulfill the computer science requirement for the major. Please note the required timeline at the bottom of this page.

Technology.  Students should be able to use appropriate technology as a tool in understanding mathematics, solving problems, and presenting solutions.

Goal: Students will be able to use computer or graphing calculator technology to explore or illuminate mathematical concepts and create a product that can be readily used by other students to strengthen their own understanding of the concept. Students will demonstrate familiarity with multiple platforms and the ability to use the “if … then” and loop control structures from computer programming.

Product: Students will create a portfolio of 4 or more technology projects. The portfolio will include at least one project using each of the following:

The portfolio will include projects designed around course goals from a mix of lower level and upper level math courses.

Each project should include a cover page identifying which course goals are explored in the project, explaining why the project is well suited for using technology, and any special features or instructions for using the project. The code (or directions for graphing calculator use) should be user friendly and enhance the user’s understanding of the mathematics. Note: the calculator project(s) should not be dependent on any particular calculator.

Content

Unacceptable:  0

Acceptable: 1 -2

Target 3-4

Score

Mathematics

Incorrect mathematics

Mathematics is correct but  concept is not explored in a significant way or technology is superfluous

Correct mathematics explored in depth; project is well suited for the technology platform chosen.

 

Technology Use

Technology does not perform or is articulated in terms of a specific calculator only.

Worksheet performs but is not easily usable or contains poor programming style.

Worksheet fulfills the stated goals and is easy to use. Style is good.

 

Communication

Cover Sheet Missing

Cover sheet explains the project.

Cover sheet is well written, explains how to use the project, why it is significant, and enhances the understanding of the user.

 

Each project in the portfolio will be assessed using the above rubric. At least two of the projects must reach target in all three areas and in addition to be considered acceptable the if/then and loop structures must each be used at least once.

Timeline:  Math and math-teaching majors planning to satisfy the technology requirement through the technology proficiency process must hand in the required portfolio at least one semester prior to their intended graduation date.  (Timeline approved January 2006.)

Approved:  July 2004