Calculators, Attitudes, and Success
Brian R. O'Callaghan
Department of Mathematics
Southeastern Louisiana University
SLU 582
500 Western Avenue
Hammond, LA 70402
Phone: (504) 549-2169
Fax: (504) 549-2099
E-mail: bocallaghan@selu.edu
ABSTRACT
A study was conducted involving six graphing calculator sections and three traditional
sections of a college algebra course. The calculator students showed significant improvements in
their overall attitude toward mathematics, their self-concept relative to mathematics, and their
enjoyment of mathematics. They rated the calculators and teachers very highly, and they were
more successful than the traditional students.
