Submitted to the Faculty of Education in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Education, in the Department of Mathematics, Science and Technology Education at the University of Zululand, 2008. / The present study is about the problem solving and the use of computer in teaching and learning of mathematics. The study was conducted to grade eight learners where basic mathematics concepts are introduced. The reason is that lack of knowledge of basic mathematics concepts, irrelevant approaches and methods used in teaching mathematics are perceived as the cause of poor performance in mathematics. Therefore if learners could master these concepts and acquire problem solving skills at elementary level they can do better in upper levels especially in grade 12. In this regard the effects of problem solving involving the use of computer at grade eight level have been investigated.
The first aim was to test the effects of multidimensional approach using computer in algebra problem solving. The second aim was to determine the effects multiple representations in computer environment have on mathematics problem solving. The third aim was to determine the effects of computer assisted collaborative learning on mathematics problem solving.
To achieve these aims an unstandardised achievement test and a questionnaire was administered to a sample of grade eight learners from three high schools in KwaZulu Natal. The results revealed that if problem solving is integrated with other components (dimensions) such as the teaching of facts and skills, teaching for understanding and the use of technology (computer) learners are likely to achieve better results in mathematics.
The results also revealed that the use of multiple representations in expressing the mathematical concept or idea and collaboration among learners in problem solving improve learners' understanding of mathematics.
The discussion of the results of this study leads to the discussion of implications of the findings and recommendations. / University of Zululand.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:uzulu/oai:uzspace.unizulu.ac.za:10530/308 |
| Date | January 2008 |
| Creators | Biyela, Khetha Bonginkosi |
| Contributors | Sibaya, D.C., Sibaya, P.T. |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | application/pdf |
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