Introduction +Objective It is not a search engine! It is a COMPUTATIONAL KNOWLEDGE ENGINE! Wolfram|Alpha is an engine for computing/calculating answers and providing knowledge. It aims to collect, organize, and present all objective data. Wolfram|Alpha's goal is to provide a single source for all learners to rely on for expert-level knowledge and capabilities. Though it is mostly associated with mathematics, it can also be relied on for biology, chemistry, physics, English, history, and much more.
How can Wolfram|Alpha be used in the classroom?
Teachers can use Wolfram|Alpha in a myriad of ways. They can use the engine to show students steps in using mathematical or scientific equations (e.g., Pythagorean theorem, balancing chemical equations, speed of light). They can the engine to display information on famous historical figures or events. Teachers can find computable/calculatable information on current events and use that information to pose thought provoking questions to the students.
Students can use Wolfram|Alpha for research purposes on anything and everything - as long as the information they are looking for is objective. In fact, they should be encouraged to! The computational knowledge engine covers subjects from math and chemistry to words/linguistics, food and nutrition, astronomy, culture and media, sports, and so much more!
UDL Connections Wolfram|Alpha is a great visual tool for students to use! When a search is submitted on the engine, it organizes and displays all information in tables (with drop down capabilities for more elaborate results). It also provides graphs and pictures. However, it has extremely limited auditory capabilities.
It is a great tool to reel in student interest because of its capability to cover a vast amount of topics - the teacher can allow the students to utilize the "surprise" tab from time to time to see what they find. But, if the lesson incorporates the use of Wolfram|Alpha, the teacher will have to place an emphasize on staying on task because of the engine's capabilities!