TI GRAPHING CALCULATOR ROBOT, THE

Mathematics and Computer Education, Spring 2009 by Ostler, Elliott

THE TI GRAPHING CALCULATOR ROBOT Website: http://www.tirobot.com/ Contact: Norland Research, 8475 Lisa Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89113 Phone: (702) 263 - 7932 Price: $99.95

As a mathematics professor, I'm always on the lookout for new ways of providing better contexts for my students when discussing the mathematics topics that they're learning. Lately, I've also been looking for ways to increase their expertise in the use of graphing calculators, particularly since these important tools are now allowed on the SAT and ACT exams. I've recently found a device that does both, as well as provides a great way to motivate students. The TI Graphing Calculator Robot from Norland research is a simple, programmable robot that interfaces with the Texas Instruments 83 and 84 series of graphing calculators. The Norland website suggests that it is like "giving your graphing calculator wheels."

Programming the robot can be done with computer software that comes with the robot on a CD and is compatible with both the Mac and PC platforms, or directly using the graphing calculator keyboard in the PROGRAM mode. The calculator keyboard entry option is especially helpful for making quick changes in the programming, while students are exploring modifications in the program parameters to see how they impact and relate to the robot's operation. The robot and graphing calculator "talk" through the calculator's I/O port via a cable, included with the robot. A USB cable for linking the computer to the TI-84 can also be ordered and is free with pre-paid orders. One other option that isn't necessary but makes sense is an extra calculator cover. The calculator sits on a platform on top of the robot but is not secured unless you use the included Velcro fasteners, which attach to both the robot and the calculator case with double-sided tape. This attaches permanently to the calculator cover, so an extra cover will protect the calculator when it is used away from the robot.

Some robot assembly is required, but it is mechanical and will take only about 5 minutes or so. You'll need a small Phillips screwdriver to screw the wheels into the sleeves on the small wheel motors. Also, the bumper attaches with double-sided tape, and thick rubber bands are put around the wheels for extra traction. Finally, there is an optional penholder that will secure to the robot a small pen or a dry-erase marker, so that the robot's path can be traced as it drives.

The robot comes with a complete set of instructions for programming through the graphing calculator. I found the instructions very readable, and simple to perform. There are also a number of downloadable programs from the CD, which can be loaded directly from the computer into the graphing calculator. The robot's programming commands and syntax are simple enough to be used by high-school and lower-level college students (or even middle-school students), and provide a great opportunity for exposure to the innovative uses of the graphing calculator. The extra practice and experience working with graphing calculators will help students when taking meir SAT and ACT exams.

With much conversation nowadays related to 21st century skills, the TI Graphing Calculator Robot gives instructors me opportunity to involve students in such "thinking projects" using mutually supportive 21st century technologies. I recently held a workshop on me robot for a group of highschool and middle-school teachers, and they didn't want to give meir robots back! Thus, I find this new tool to be a real winner for any mathematics teacher who wants to involve students in productive as well as motivational problem solving that will also familiarize them with graphing calculator technology.

Review by Elliott Ostler

University of Nebraska at Omaha