Texas Instruments

Our third component is Texas Instruments technology, specifically classroom sets of TI-Nspire™ CX graphing calculators, and professional development and coaching (called T3^TM) to use the technology. Use of such technology increases students’ computational thinking, critical thinking, and academic achievement. For example, in a meta-analysis of 54 studies, students’ operational and problem-solving skills improved when graphing calculators were integrated into both classroom instruction and testing (Ellington, 2003). Students who used graphing calculators had significantly more positive attitudes towards mathematics (effect size of .49 across 8 studies) than comparison students (Ellington, 2003).

Extending this research, Texas SEED used TI-Nspire^™ Technology in tandem with T3™ coaching to enhance the pedagogical skills and content knowledge of Texas SEED teachers and assist Texas SEED teachers to increase achievement for all students and to motivate the pursuit of higher-level math courses

In multiple studies, the T3^TM program has increased student test scores on statewide tests. For example, in one study 328 students in Florida whose teachers had received T3^TM PD had significantly higher scores compared to students of control teachers (Laumakis & Herman, 2008). TI-Nspire^TM Technology has also been effective in increasing students’ understanding and attitudes towards math. In a randomized controlled trial, students who received the TI-Nspire^TM Technology demonstrated deeper understanding and greater abilities in drawing inferences. Students with low achievement made the greatest gains(O’Mahony et al., 2008).

Ellington, A. J. (2003). A meta-analysis of the effects of calculators on students’ achievement and attitude levels in precollege mathematics classes. Journal for Research in Mathematics Education, 34(5), 433-463.

Laumakis, P. & Herman, M. (2008). The effect of a calculator training workshop for high school teachers on their students’ performance on Florida state-wide assessments. International Journal for Technology in Mathematics Education, 15(3), 87-93.

O’Mahony, T. K., Baer, T., et al. (2008). A Visuo-spatial Learning Ecosystem Enhances Adaptive Expertise with Preparation for Future Learning. I. S. T. K. Principal Investigator.