Graphing investigations using portable (palmtop) technology

The increasing use of portable computers raises issues about their impact o n learning and attitudes to computing. These issues were explored in an eva luation of a weather project undertaken by 48 students aged 13-14 using pal mtop computers. Students worked in groups over 3 weeks, collecting and grap hing temperature data. Motivation and confidence in using technology increa sed and learning gains of averages and graph interpretation were observed. The evaluation illustrated the potential power and versatility of portable technology in tackling graphing, and the opportunities they present for stu dent participation. Some pedagogic implications of using portables are cons idered.