The experiential modification of a computer software package for graphing algebraic functions

Abstract

Graphing software and graphics calculators are widely used in most of the world's larger economies to facilitate students' development of conceptual understanding of mathematical function analysis. This has proved to be an extremely effective vehicle in making complex mathematics more accessible to the majority of learners. In contrast, its use in South Africa has been limited. Possible reasons may be the cost of graphics calculators, limited availability of supporting study material, and teachers who lack the necessary skills and confidence. At the School of Teacher Training, University of Pretoria, the Master Grapher for Windows was introduced by way of a pilot study in an effort to adapt the training of mathematics teachers-in-training to meet the specific needs of these students. The experiences of five students were monitored. The aim is to enhance and facilitate trainee-teachers' understanding of mathematics, but also to equip them to develop learner-centred, group-based learning experiences in future teaching situations. Action research was implemented to develop the course.