9451597 Slough The project addresses the "brief" calculus course, which serves the needs of students majoring in business, management, and the biological and social sciences. Currently, the primary emphasis in this course is placed on mechanical skills such as differentiation, integration, and algebraic manipulations. However, the primary emphasis should focus Structured laboratory investigations, coupled with a computer algebra system to assist with purely mechanical aspects, are being developed so that the students will focus more on the fundamental concepts of calculus and on the development of high-level problem-solving skills. Previously, this course was taught assuming that students did not use computational tools beyond a calculator. As a result, it was difficult for them to obtain numerical insight. However, ready access to a computer algebra system allows new types of activities to be used, providing a more rounded view of the subject matter--including graphical, numerical, and analytical aspects. Approximately 15 Maple worksheets are being developed. These worksheets will be made available nationally through the Interactive Mathematics Text Project and through internet services.
