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http://ccenter.uoregon.edu/conferences/necc2002/program/presenter_rp_pdfs/MACGREGOR.pdf

Learning Geometry Dynamically: Teacher Structure or Facilitation?
S. Kim MacGregor, LSU; W. Randall Thomas, St. Joseph’s Academy

Abstract
This study examined the effects of level of instructional scaffolding on students’ use of Geometer’s Sketchpad and other software tools in a technology-integrated geometry curriculum. In order to revitalize education at the secondary level and in particular in the mathematics curriculum, educational reformers have advocated the incorporation of appropriate technologies to support learner-centered environments. The goal was to determine the relative effectiveness of a teacher directed approach compared to a student-directed approach of utilizing Sketchpad to complete a project-based learning task. . In general, in the short term, the instructional model where the
teacher provided structure and directed the problem solving activities of the students resulted in learner outcomes characterized by greater understanding of the concepts and less frustration with the process of using Sketchpad. However, many students in the self-directed group expressed a sense of self–confidence and pleasure with their
accomplishments.

  posted by Ray at 7:26 AM permanent item link   

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