in this paper we focus on the link between the use of dynamic geometry software and student understanding for the solution of systems of linear equations from an instrumental genesis perspective. Three task-based interviews were conducted with an undergraduate linear algebra student majoring in mathematics education and proficient in using dynamic…

A summary of an experimental course on algebraic curves is given that was held for young learners at age 11. The course was a part of Epsilon camp. a program designed for very gifted students who have already demonstrated high interest in studying mathematics. Prerequisites for the course were mastery of Algebra I and at least one preliminary year…

Searching for loci belongs to classical topics of school curricula at schools of different levels all over the world. In the text investigation of loci by GeoGebra using the command "LocusEquation," the tool which has recently been implemented into GeoGebra and which brings a new approach in searching for loci of points, is given. This…

In this work, we review and share some useful technology for mathematics educators that can help to enhance their pedagogical practices to motivate students to improve their further understanding of differential equations after an initial exposure to the topic in an undergraduate class. In particular, we present some innovative ways to employ…

This paper examines the process of instrumental genesis through which students develop their proficiency in making use of movable points and slider bars--two tools that dynamic mathematics software provides for working with variable coordinates and parameters in the field of functions. The paper analyses students' responses to task sequences…

Stepwise program refinement techniques can be used to simplify program verification. Programs are better understood since their main properties are clearly stated, and verification of rather complex algorithms is reduced to proving simple statements connecting successive program specifications. Additionally, it is easy to analyse similar…

Solving systems of equations at school, at least in Argentina, is usually a task that students are given as a series of techniques that "allow" them to find a solution. How to overcome educational obstacles that are generated from a fragmented approach of knowledge? What can DGS do, in particular the CAS environment? What epistemic and…

The answers offered by computer algebra systems (CAS) can sometimes differ from those expected by the students or teachers. The comparison of the students' answers and CAS answers could provide ground for discussion about equivalence and correctness. Investigating the students' comparison of the answers gives the possibility to study different…

This paper illustrates a TI N-Spire .tns file created by the author for generating continued fraction representations of real numbers and doing arithmetic with them. The continued fraction representation provides an alternative to the decimal representation. The .tns file can be used as tool for studying continued fractions and their properties as…

Sometimes Computer Algebra Systems (CAS) offer an answer that is somewhat different from the answer that is probably expected by the student or teacher. These (somewhat unexpected) answers could serve as a catalyst for rich mathematical discussion. In this study, over 120 equations from school mathematics were solved using 8 different CAS. Many…

Several factors have motivated the use of CAS or DGS in the teaching-learning process, such as: the development of new technologies, the availability of computers, and the widespread use of the Internet, among others. Even more, the trend to include CAS and DGS in the curricula of some undergraduate studies has resulted in the instruction of the…

The research relates to undergraduate students' understanding of mathematical concepts that relate to the conceptualisation of the continuous such as the notion of limit. The cognitive difficulties that accompany the learning of these concepts at the different stages of the mathematics education are well reported in the literature. I analyse the…

In mathematics education, physical manipulatives such as algebra tiles, pattern blocks, and two-colour counters are commonly used to provide concrete models of abstract concepts. With these traditional manipulatives, people can communicate with the tools only in one another's presence. This limitation poses difficulties concerning assessment and…

This paper proposes modelling based learning as a tool for learning and teaching mathematics. The example of modelling real world problems leading to the exponential function as the solution of differential equations is described, as well as the observations about students' activities during the process. The students were acquainted with the…

Dynamic/interactive graphing applets can be used to supplement standard computer algebra systems such as Maple, Mathematica, Derive, or TI calculators, in courses such as Calculus, Differential Equations, and Dynamical Systems. The addition of this type of software can lead to discovery learning, with students developing their own conjectures, and…