Using Guided Learning and E-Learning
Tools To Get Students To Discuss and Write About Mathematics
Using wireless laptops and a course website have enabled
me to create a variety of E-learning opportunities that include Internet
assignments and in-class explorations of mathematics on the WWW, history of
mathematics research assignments, and MS Excel interactive workbooks that can
be used for class demonstrations, concept exploration, and assignments as well
as projects in which students explore real world applications. The most important component in any of these
is the opportunity for students to discuss mathematics, to explain concepts in
their own words, to present mathematics to others, to write mathematics, and to
write about mathematics. In all class
discussions and written assignments, students are required to use correct
terminology and notation as well as to communicate concepts and the problem
solving methods that they use so that anyone can understand and appreciate
their analyses. I will discuss some of
my experiences in using such assignments and tools with students, student
reaction, and some considerations in designing and using such E-learning tools
and assignments in this manner.