An investigation of factors that affect general mathematics students' use of templates in computer-based problem-solving

James Francis Mason, Purdue University

Abstract

Although computer-based activities have been employed in mathematics classes for some time, there is little evidence that they have been used effectively with low ability students. There is a demonstrated need to emphasize and delineate the appropriate uses of the computer in high school general mathematics classes. In addition, it is necessary to analyze the ways in which computer-based problem solving influences general mathematics students' learning processes. This study explored the approach of using templates to teach computer-based problem solving. Templates are short segments of BASIC programming that the students may use as a guide for writing programs to assist in problem solving. This research project sought to identify and analyze the factors that affect this usage. The research project consisted of case studies of four high school general mathematics from a local high school. The actual project took place at a university computer laboratory during twenty-four after school sessions over a period of thirteen weeks. These students worked in pairs on computer-based problem solving activities. The activities were developed by the researcher. Clinical interviews were conducted throughout the project to assess the students' progress and the effectiveness of the template use. Although the results were limited, they did show that templates are an effective and efficient method of teaching computer programming to these general students. The students were able to successfully write computer programs to solve many simple and complex mathematical problems. The students' beliefs about computers and themselves became more positive throughout the project. There were some demands placed on the students to effectively use the templates, but they were not too difficult to overcome. However, the better students were able to make more effective use of the templates than did the other students.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Wheatley, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Mathematics education|Educational software

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