Graphing and Percentage Applications Using the Personal Computer

This paper describes how the computer and several new software programs, particularly IBM Graphing Assistant and Apple Softgraph, are used to foster a multifaceted approach to the application of certain mathematical concepts. The paper highlights how a survey can be undertaken using the computer as a word processor, data bank, and source of visual displays. Mathematical skills reinforced in the process include estimating, rounding, graphing, and solving percent equations. Such cognitive skills as analyzing collected information, organizing and encoding data, and comparing part/whole relationships are also discussed.