Abstract of article: Maple is a valuable supplement to a one-semester course in modern (abstract) algebra to aid in improving the proof-writing skills of our students. The format of our course is lecture and discussion with some emphasis on having students learn a few important concepts by a discovery process enhanced through the use of technology. After a thorough study of examples, students are encouraged to make conjectures and prove their claims. We shall explore how to include Maple in the study of modern algebra at an introductory level in the areas of symmetry groups, matrix groups, and groups of complex numbers. We include portions of Maple worksheet exercises for each of these three topics; students complete the exercises before the next class meeting to facilitate class discussion. This article is intended for those who want to incorporate some measure of innovation into a typical traditional course.
About the author: Kevin Charlwood is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics at Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee in quantum groups in 1994. His current research interests lie in using technology to enhance student learning in calculus and modern algebra.
Software used: Maple