Mathematical Methods and Mathematical Methods Computer Algebra System (CAS) 2006 : concurrent implementation with a common technology free examination

Analyses and commentary for 2002-2005 Mathematical Methods (CAS) pilot examinations in Victoria, on student performance with respect to common items with the standard course have been reported at previous MERGA conferences. In 2006, both Mathematical Methods and Mathematical Methods (CAS) were available to all Victorian schools as equivalent subjects with a new examination structure that comprised a 1-hour 'common technology-free' examination and a 2-hour approved technology active examination. This paper provides some analysis of student performance on the technology free examination, and also with respect to common items in both the multiple choice and extended response components of the technology-active examination. The virtually identical performance of the two groups on the technology-free examination does not appear to support the concern that students learning with the aid of CAS would potentially not develop the same level of algebraic skills as those learning with an ordinary graphing calculator. [Author abstract, ed