[Maths-Education] Re: ICT in mathematics

[Tandi Clausen-May]

How 'successful' any teaching is judged to be depends on how that 'success'
is measured.

The way in which learning is usually measured in our formal education system
is with a test.

If a test question is Use appropriate dynamic geometry (Geogebra, Cabri,
Sketchpad, Autograph, whatever) to construct a polygon with given properties
then the learners will probably do better in the test if they have spent
time working with dynamic geometry.

If the test question is Use compasses and a straight edge to construct a
polygon with given properties then they probably won't.  Previous experience
with dynamic geometry will probably have little, if any, impact on their
'success'.  

I have yet to see a GCSE question like the former, but questions like the
latter are de rigueur. 

Yours,  Tandi 

 

Tandi Clausen-May
Independent Consultant
Mathematics curriculum and assessment
Special education

Tel: 01628 776 204