New Releases - Calculus Problems Made Easy
Calculus WIZ is a software product for first-year calculus students that can solve over 90% of the homework problems assigned in a typical calculus course. Just as the introduction of the pocket calculator led to debates among math instructors, Calculus WIZ raises questions about how mathematics should be taught in the computer age. The software was developed by Keith Stroyan, professor of mathematics at the University of Iowa and a longtime crusader in the cause of calculus reform, a movement that stresses conceptual understanding of mathematics over rote calculations. Stroyan, believing that typical calculus instruction in the "template examples and exercises paradigm" fails to instill a deep understanding, invented Calculus WIZ to show students the underlying theories of calculus. The software includes a complete electronic calculus textbook, including exercises for self-study. Wolfram Research, Champaign, IL, (800) 441-MATH, www.wolfram.com.
This article originally appeared in the 02/01/2001 issue of THE Journal.