Students encountering obstacles using a CAS

The paper describes a pilot study on the use of computer algebra at upper secondary level. A symbolic calculator was introduced in a pre-examination class studying for advanced pre-university mathematics. With the theoretical framework of Realistic Mathematics Education and Developmental Research as a background, the study focused on the identification of obstacles that students encountered while using computer algebra. Five obstacles were identified that have both a technical and a mathematical character. It is the author’s belief that taking these barriers seriously is important in developing useful pedagogical strategies.