Creating charts and graphs is all about visual abstraction: the process of representing aspects of data with imagery that can be interpreted by the reader. Children may need help making the link between the "real" and the image. This abstraction can be achieved using symbols, size, colour and position. Where the representation is close to what…

In recent years, software operating skills, the ability in computer literacy to solve problems using specific software, has become much more important. A great deal of research has also proven that students' software operating skills can be efficiently improved by practicing customized virtual and simulated examinations. However, constructing…

The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of a technology-supported learning environment utilizing an interactive whiteboard (IWB) and NuCalc graphing software compared to a traditional direct instruction-based environment on student achievement in graphs of quadratic functions and attitudes towards mathematics and technology. Sixty-five…

This descriptive case study investigated the role of narrative in multimedia learning and teaching and observed how teachers applied their understanding of narrative, and new constructivist technologies, to design multimedia presentations for instruction. The study looked specifically at the cognitive strategies, visual narrative concepts, and…

The ability to visualize student engagement and experience data provides valuable opportunities for learning support and curriculum design. With the rise of the use of learning analytics to provide "actionable intelligence" on students' learning, the challenge is to create visualizations of the data, which are clear and useful to the…

With the development of e-learning technology, many specifications of instructional design have been proposed to make learning activity sharable and reusable. With the specifications and sufficient learning resources, the researches further focus on how to provide learners more appropriate learning activities to improve their learning performance.…

This paper analyses technology-based instruction on data-analysis with box plots. Examples of instruction taken from the research literature inform a study of two classes of 17 year-old students (upper secondary) in which the mathematical relationships that their teachers targeted are distinguished as being, or not being, relevant to statistical…

Some experiences with a classroom computer graphics facility are recounted to show how such a facility has changed the views of some instructors teaching mathematics at the college level. Teachers are encouraged to search out and seize opportunities to acquire graphics hardware, with the added teaching capabilities promoted. (MP)

There is much research that documents what many teachers know, that students struggle with many concepts in probability and statistics. This article presents two sample activities the authors use to help preservice teachers develop ideas about how they can use technology to promote their students' ability to understand mathematics and connect…

Identifies conceptions that students have with regard to the construction of graphs representing everyday situations in a computer learning environment using a GRAPHIC plotter, and examines the resistance of alternative conceptions to formal instruction. Following instruction, no significant improvement in students' performance was observed.…

Provides a lesson that focuses on three-dimensional graphing, contours, and topographical maps using computer spreadsheets. (ASK)

During the first 12 weeks of an applied calculus course, two classes of college students studied calculus concepts using graphical and symbol-manipulation computer programs to perform routine manipulations. Three weeks were spent on skill development. Students showed better understanding of concepts and performed almost as well on routine skills.…

With computers, tangible tools are represented by the hardware (e.g., the central processing unit, scanners, and video display unit), while intangible tools are represented by the software. There is a special category of computer-based software tools (CBSTs) that have the potential to mediate cognitive processes--computer-based cognitive tools…

Discusses gradebook programs, both for schools with electronic administrative programs and those without. Outlines problems and benefits of selected programs, focusing on intuitiveness (ease of use for those with little training); report generators and customization abilities; and graphing and attendance-keeping capabilities. (AEF)

Argues that while microcomputer and graphing calculators have evolved to a stage where they should be used routinely by mathematics students at all levels, there is sometimes potential to mislead students with computer generated graphs. Examples are included. (PK)