The Effect of Using Dynamic Mathematics Software: Cross Section and Visualization

Kosa T.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR TECHNOLOGY IN MATHEMATICS EDUCATION, vol.23, no.4, pp.121-128, 2016 (ESCI) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 23 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2016
  • Doi Number: 10.1564/tme_v23.4.01
  • Journal Name: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR TECHNOLOGY IN MATHEMATICS EDUCATION
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus, EBSCO Education Source, ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), DIALNET
  • Page Numbers: pp.121-128
  • Karadeniz Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The main purpose of this study is to determine the effects of using dynamic mathematics software on pre-service mathematics teachers' ability to infer the shape of a cross section of a three-dimensional solid, as well as on their spatial visualization skills. The study employed a quasi-experimental design with a control group; the Purdue Spatial Visualization Test (PSVT) and Santa Barbara Solid Test (SBST) were applied as pre- and post-tests. There were 48 students in the experimental group and 49 students in the control group. While the students in the experimental group took a course in a computer laboratory, the control group took the same course in their regular classroom. The results of the study showed that using dynamic mathematics software had a positive effect on pre- service mathematics teachers' ability to infer the cross section of three-dimensional solids and on their spatial visualization skills.