Presentation
Technology: The doorway of mathematical knowledge?
Critical Questions in Education Symposium
(2016)
Abstract
Published:
We will discuss the implementation of an open technology policy regarding testing and the use of technology in PVAMU’s mathematical courses as well as its reception by those involved.
Submitted:
The debate regarding the use of calculators within mathematics courses has raged for years. How should calculators be used in mathematics courses? How should students be allowed to use calculators in mathematics classes? Are they appropriate tools for aiding in the learning of mathematical content, or do they reduce mathematical knowledge to the appropriately-ordered punching of buttons? Is there a difference in what is an appropriate assessment question that does not require a calculator versus one where a calculator is or should be allowed?
To muddy the waters even more, technology has advanced to the point beyond teachers having to be wary of watches that also functioned as calculators. There are laptop computers, cell phones, tablets, handheld computer algebra systems, even the Apple Watch. One facet of this rapidly-evolving technological bounty worth discussing is examining whether teachers, or even students, have advanced along with the technology. Are the teachers adapting their teaching style to accommodate the use of technology, and are their tests and other methods of assessment adapting as well? Are the students, who are believed to be more technologically savvy, adapting as well? Where, within the developing push back and forth between students, teachers, and the mathematical content, does the idea of “perfection” fit in? How do teachers and students view their display of “perfection” (delivering content, displaying mastery of content), and are either of these views relevant to the other? How do teachers and students need to appropriately adapt?
This presentation will examine the implementation of an open technology implemented by the Prairie View A&M University Department of Mathematics. Successes, shortcomings, and improvements that can be made will be discussed as will tangentially-related outcomes brought about by the embracing of the technological evolution.
Disciplines
Publication Date
October 4, 2016
Location
Salt Lake City, Utah
Citation Information
James Valles Jr. and Kitty Warsame. "Technology: The doorway of mathematical knowledge?" Critical Questions in Education Symposium (2016) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/james-valles-jr/9/