Computer Algebra Based Assessment of Mathematics Online
Laura M. Naismith, Chris Sangwin · Loughborough University Institutional Repository (Loughborough University) · 2004
In this paper, we investigate computer algebra based assessment of mathematics online, with a focus on undergraduate students. Introducing a computer algebra system to assist in marking allows a paradigm shift from teacher-provided answers to student-provided answers. The Computer Algebra Based Learning and Evaluation (CABLE) system is presented as an open source infrastructure for mathematical learning objects. Features of the CABLE system, including the modular design, database structure, learning object specification and learning object contextualisation are described and areas for future work are identified. Why should we use computer algebra for assessment of mathematics? Computer algebra systems (CAS) are well-established research tools for performing symbolic manipulation of mathematical expressions. For example, they may symbolically expand an expression such as (x+1)2 to x2 + 2x + 1 and then perform the reverse factorisation process. Fundamental to any CAS is