In 2005, the MOE and the NZQA began a pilot programme to trial the use of the latest generation of calculators which included Computer Algebraic Systems (CAS) capabilities. The intent was to give quality professional development to effectively use CAS in the classrooms and to eventually allow the calculators in CAS-enabled NCEA assessments in the same way that graphics calculators are currently used.
NZCER evaluated an extension of the pilot in 2006-2007. The evaluation explored changes to:
- Teaching and learning practices;
- Student achievement; and
- Student and teacher attitudes to the pilot, to technology, and to mathematics.