Improving Calculus Learning Using a Scientific Calculator
Open Education Studies, 2020; 2: 220–227 Research Article Miriam Dagan*, Pavel Satianov, Mina Teicher Improving Calculus Learning Using a Scientific Calculator https://doi.org/10.1515/edu-2020-0125 received July 2, 2020; accepted September 28, 2020. made possible with calculators. This includes not only the basic computational tools, but also their potential use in Abstract: This article discusses the use of a scientific enhancing conceptual understanding of mathematical calculator in teaching calculus by using representations concepts and approaches, essential for developing of mathematics notions in different sub-languages research and critical thinking by the student. (analytical, graphical, symbolical, verbal, numerical This is very important nowadays, because academic and computer language). Our long-term experience institutions have been dealing with the failure of students shows that this may have a positive and significant effect in the first year of their studies in general and especially on the enhancement of conceptual understanding of in mathematical courses (Lowe and Cook, 2003; Yorke and mathematical concepts and approaches. This transcends Longden, 2004). With technological advances and a large the basic computational uses, and implies a potential flow of students to STEM professions at universities and for real improvement in the learning success, cognitive colleges, there is a constant decline in the mathematical motivation and problem solving skills of the student. basic knowledge of the novice academic students (Gueudet, We illustrate the steps we have taken towards doing this 2013; Bosch, Fonseca & Gascon, 2004). Undergraduate through some examples. students have difficulties in understanding definitions and various representation of mathematical concepts. It is Keywords: scientific calculator; calculus teaching; because teaching and learning in high school is still based different representations; conceptual understanding; more on algorithmic exercises and memorization, rather cognitive motivation.
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