Dynamic Geometry Software - a powerful tool for teaching mathematics , not just geometry ! Adrian

Abstract Dynamic Geometry Software (DGS) includes packages such as Cabri Géomètre (also available in the Texas Instruments' TI-92), the Geometer's Sketchpad and Thales, for PC and Mac. These enable users to define objects such as points, lines (or segments, rays and vectors) and circles (or arcs) and to construct geometric objects depending on them by classical constructions (straight edge and compass), linear transformations (translation, rotation, dilation, reflection) and/or algebraic relationships using coordinates (Cartesian and polar). Measurements may be made, on which computations can be performed and from which other objects can be defined. Loci of moving points and envelopes of moving lines can be defined and drawn, and such curves change shape instantly as adjustments are made to their defining objects (parameters). The talk will give examples of how such software can be used to (a) develop mathematical concepts such as variable, dependency, domain and parameter, (b) solve a variety of mathematical problems in novel ways and (c) provide a powerful means of illustrating a variety of topics in undergraduate mathematics from areas such as calculus, numerical analysis, linear algebra, complex number, dynamical systems, mathematical modelling, mechanics, statistics, and computer graphics.