MathXpert: Algebra Assistant, Precalculus Assistant, and Calculus Assistant [CD-ROM programs for Windows computers]

MathGrades 7–12

About This Curriculum

Interactive tutorial software for algebra, precalculus, and calculus that works step-by-step through mathematical problems with hints and guidance.

What makes it unique: Step-by-step problem solving with intelligent hints and error prevention, designed to replace homework and blackboards but not teachers

MathXpert: Interactive Tutorial Software with Step-by-Step Problem Solving

MathXpert is interactive tutorial software for algebra, precalculus, and calculus that guides students through mathematical problems step-by-step with hints and verification. The software allows students to work through sample problems or enter their own equations, providing immediate feedback and graphical solutions.

Best for

Students in grades 7-12 who need additional practice and step-by-step guidance on algebra, precalculus, and calculus problems, particularly as a supplement to classroom instruction

Evaluation Criteria

2 strengths · 4 neutral · 3 insufficient evidence

Worked ExamplesStrength

The curriculum provides extensive worked examples that students can study and modify for their own practice.

The software includes many sample problems (2,837 in Algebra, 1,710 in Pre-Calculus, 2,128 in Calculus) that students can work through, and they can substitute their own numbers into these examples

Sequencing ApproachStrength

The software supports mastery-based learning by allowing students to work on specific topics until proficiency is achieved.

Students can select specific topics and subtopics to work on, and the developer emphasizes the cumulative nature of mathematics requiring mastery of each part before progressing

Teacher TrainingNeutral

The software includes some support for teacher professional development and classroom use.

The developer mentions that MathXpert would be beneficial for teacher training and in-service workshops, particularly for high school math teachers, and describes classroom and lab applications

Direct InstructionNeutral

The software is designed to supplement rather than replace direct teacher instruction, providing guided practice rather than initial instruction.

The developer explicitly states that MathXpert is designed to replace blackboards and homework but not teachers and books

Assessment DiagnosticNeutral

The software provides self-correcting feedback but lacks comprehensive diagnostic assessment features.

Students can verify correctness through the exercise itself using Montessori's concept of self-correcting materials, but no mention of diagnostic assessments to identify specific gaps

Visual RepresentationsNeutral

The software includes graphing capabilities but limited information about other visual models or manipulatives.

Reviews mention that the program can graph solutions and that graphs can be printed out, but no mention of other visual representations

Word ProblemsInsufficient Evidence

No specific mention of word problem instruction or real-world application features.

Reviews discuss algebraic equation solving and mathematical operations but don't reference word problems or application contexts

Retrieval PracticeInsufficient Evidence

No evidence of systematic retrieval practice or spaced review features in the software.

Reviews focus on problem-solving assistance but don't mention any features for reviewing previously learned material or testing recall

Conceptual Procedural BalanceInsufficient Evidence

The software appears to emphasize procedural fluency through step-by-step problem solving, but conceptual development is unclear.

Reviews focus on the software's ability to work through problems step-by-step and show operations, but don't mention conceptual explanations or understanding-building features

Sources: cathyduffyreviews.com, macworld.com