this talk illustrates capabilities in mathematica 6 that are directly applicable for use in teaching and research on campus. topics of this technical talk include: * 2d and 3d visualization * dynamic interactivity * on-demand scientific data * example-driven course materials * symbolic interface construction * practical and theoretical applications \noindent current users will benefit from seeing the many improvements and new features of mathematica 6 \noindent (http://www.wolfram.com/mathematica/newin6), but prior knowledge of mathematica is not required.