First-year engineering students show difficulties in connecting basic vector algebra with manipulations using the graphical representation. Experiencing vectors in real applications can improve the process of learning vectors. Thus, we introduce a unique approach for using digital technologies, namely augmented reality. We utilized a video…

This work is the result of a pre-experiment carried out as part of a master's course, dealing with the study of the parabola through different mathematical views. It aims to recognize possible didactic obstacles in its teaching, based on intuitive manifestations in the resolution of a didactic situation based on GeoGebra software. The methodology…

To a student in introductory physics, using vectors is at best an exercise in bookkeeping. A two-dimensional kinematics problem effectively doubles the number of equations that a student must know, and invites the student to memorize factoids: "The horizontal motion is constant," "Gravity is only in the y-direction," etc. Force…

Basis vectors e[subscript alpha] play a useful role in special and general relativity. In particular they allow an expansion of the vectorial spacetime interval dl along infinitesimal curvilinear coordinate differences dl = e[subscript alpha]d[Xi][superscript alpha]: (thus the definition e[subscript alpha] = dl/d[Xi][superscript alpha]). In this…

An understanding of concepts related to geometric measurement is considered to be critical to the development of individuals' mathematics knowledge. Specifically, the National Mathematics Advisory Panel's 2008 report listed the skills of area and perimeter as foundational for algebra readiness. Yet, this content knowledge continues to be an…

Windmill images and shapes have a long history in geometry and can be found in problems in different mathematical contexts. In this paper, we share and discuss various problems involving windmill shapes and solutions from geometry, algebra, to elementary number theory. These problems can be used, separately or together, for students to explore…

The Klein bottle and hairy ball theorem are important concepts in advanced mathematics and they are both examples of the Poincaré-Hopf theorem. Complex theories such as these usually remain unrealized in the minds of mathematicians. In this collaborative work between a mathematician and a designer, we introduce the concept of the hairy Klein…

Vectors have important applications both within and outside mathematics, but the concept of vectors is often taught to students in a less-than-engaging way, leading to students feeling inadequate and frustrated. This article describes the use of a mathematical microworld, "Driving with Vectors," to explore vectors using equitable…

The purpose of the present article is to investigate the definition of matrix multiplication as a central issue in linear algebra courses. Applying both historical and pedagogical approaches, it focuses on the philosophy of generating the usual matrix multiplication, as a special binary operation, with its partly unexpected form compared with the…

This study explores learning vector addition and demonstrating the understanding of vector addition. Vector addition is a key skill in mathematics and science education, but there is a limited amount of research that focuses on this topic. My study investigates how an instructional design framework "concreteness fading" can be used for…

"Representational transformation diagrams" are used to compare and contrast standard textbook presentations of vector line integrals in undergraduate courses in both mathematics and physics. These presentations are taken as the lower anchor in a learning trajectory. Two principal approaches in the lower division are identified, roughly…

This study explores the effectiveness of GeoGebra in enhancing students' understanding of vectors in mathematics education. The research compares traditional teaching methods with the application of GeoGebra to determine its impact on conceptual and procedural knowledge acquisition. Vectors are often challenging for students to grasp due to their…

Continuing our critique of the classical derivation of the formula for the area of a disk, we focus on the limiting processes in geometry. Evidence suggests that intuitive approaches in arguing about infinity, when geometric configurations are involved, are inadequate, and could easily lead to erroneous conclusions. We expose weaknesses and…

The purpose of this work is to explore alternative geometric pedagogical perspectives concerning justifications to 'fast' multiplication algorithms in a way that fosters opportunities for skill and understanding within younger, or less algebraically inclined, learners. Drawing on a visual strategy to justify these algorithms creates pedagogical…

Realistic mathematics education (RME) has proven to be an effective model for mathematics elsewhere. However, students and teachers still grapple to confront the circle equation to learn and teachers to teach. This study explored students' didactical phenomenological discourses in the circle equation as an alternative. The mixed methods research…