What is the ClassPad and why do I need it?
The ClassPad is a new technology designed for learning that is fun to use. You will learn that the ClassPad does everything a regular graphing calculator does and more, but with the feel of a computer application rather than a calculator. It has menus instead of keys, a larger viewing window that scrolls, drag and drop, and a special keyboard that helps you type math quickly.
The ClassPad actually comes in three forms. One is a handheld technology, called the ClassPad 330. To operate the handheld, you use a stylus. The other two forms are software that runs on your computer. We will use the ClassPad Manager Basic version 3 software in this course. The other software is called ClassPad Manager Professional and has a resizable window.
It will be helpful for you to understand how these products are connected.
The handheld connects to your computer with a USB cable.
Once connected, we can right click on the ClassPad Manager and open another window called the Exchange Window. An image of the connected handheld will show on the left side of the Exchange Window. The image contains all the data and files currently in the connected handheld.
The following is an example of what you will see and what you can do in the Exchange Window when a handheld is connected:
Why do I need it?
If you are taking a math course, or plan to in the future, you will be expected to use a graphing calculator. The ClassPad is powerful enough to use in every future mathematics course you take. As you begin learning about the ClassPad, you will understand why it is more than a regular graphing calculator.
Also:
- You can quickly copy and paste screens from your ClassPad into papers to make them look better.
- You can save information on your ClassPad and email it to a friend.
- You will be able to visualize mathematics in a way that you were never able to before.
- You can try to discover a new theorem or field of mathematics.
- You can do things like:
Assessment 0.1: What is the ClassPad and why do I need it?
- Reflections
You have just been given a very broad overview of what the ClassPad is and why you will need it. Please open a word processor and write a short note discussing your initial feelings about the ClassPad.
Use the following questions as a guide:
Do you think it will be a fun tool to learn? Why?
How will you be able to use it in your current math class?
Ending of your note:
Ask your instructor for the user name, password and installation key needed to download and install the software.
- Submit your work (questions and answers) to your instructor.
- When your instructor replies with a user name, password and installation key you will be ready to begin Lesson 0.2.