A model for professional development for graphics calculator use

A key component of any kind of mathematics curriculum change is the development of professional expertise among teachers. This paper offers an outline model of the stages through which mathematics teachers seem to pass when learning to integrate a graphics calculator into their professional practice. The model describes four developmental stages of progression: (1) Where’s the ON button? (2) Black line mastery; (3) Routine use; and (4) Curriculum change. For each stage identified, the characteristics of teacher activity are described, together with an analysis of the professional development needs characteristic of the stage. The paper concludes with some consideration of ways in which the model might be used to guide professional support programs and to understand typical problems associated with the integration of technology into the regular mathematics curriculum.