Innovating with Calculus for Kids

‘Calculus for Kids’ is a bold demonstration project which illustrates practical ways school curricula can be transformed with computers. Starting in 2010, the project has spread across Australia It uses an innovative mix of multimedia and powerful mathematics software to teach Year 6 (age 11) students how to solve problems with integral calculus. Data were collected from 18 schools in five states and 234 students to show these students can master the techniques as early as age 10. By using a computer they were able to demonstrate learning achievement at first year university level, providing an impact factor of 6+ (when 0.3 is regarded as effective). The paper concludes by extrapolating what school curricula might become if this extension of human potential were replicated in other subject areas.