Algebra and technology: Emerging issues*

Synopsis: Although there are a number of technologies related to school algebra, it is only the personal technology of the graphics calculator that seems likely to be available widely enough to influence curriculum design and implementation on a large scale. The algebra curriculum of the past is overburdened with symbolic manipulation at the expense of understanding for most students. But algebra is much more than just symbolic manipulation. Connections between some aspects of algebra (expressing generality, functions and equations) and some graphics calculator capabilities are described. Some capabilities of algebraic calculators for symbolic manipulation are illustrated. Together, these suggest a fresh look at school algebra is needed.