Some issues surrounding the use of algebraic calculators in traditional examinations

Algebraic calculators, with symbolic manipulation capabilities, are tools in some classrooms for 14–19-year-olds and their use in learning and teaching mathematics is likely to increase over time. At the time of writing their use in traditional examinations is permitted in Austria, France and the USA. Several other countries have considered their possible use in examinations. In the UK several government initiated working groups considered the implications of their use in academic mathematics examinations for 18-year-old students. The reports of these working groups have not been published. An overview of the issues they addressed is presented here and implications for future examinations are considered.