Spreadsheets and the discovery of new knowledge

Sergei Abramovich, State University of New York at Potsdam
Gennady A. Leonov, St. Petersburg State University, Russia

Abstract

The paper introduces a new class of polynomials discovered as an extended inquiry into a two-parametric difference equation using a spreadsheet. These polynomials possess a number of interesting properties connected to the notion of a generalized golden ratio and can be used as a background for a spreadsheet-enhanced teaching of mathematics. The paper reflects on activities designed for a technology-rich mathematics education course for prospective teachers of secondary mathematics.

Recommended Citation

Abramovich, Sergei and Leonov, Gennady A. (2009) "Spreadsheets and the discovery of new knowledge," Spreadsheets in Education (eJSiE): Vol. 3: Iss. 2, Article 1.
Available at: http://epublications.bond.edu.au/ejsie/vol3/iss2/1