Using mobile devices to enhance the interactive learning for spatial geometry

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to develop a hands-on spatial geometry learning system to facilitate the learning of geometry. The development of this system was based on Duval's four critical elements of geometric learning: perceptual apprehension, sequential apprehension, operative apprehension, and discursive apprehension. The system offers support to high school students in the process of spatial geometry problem-solving. It provides a hands-on approach for manipulating spatial figures, thereby developing the students' visualization skills and ability to conceptualize images. The experiment comprised a total of 58 participants from different classes with the experimental group using the proposed learning system, whereas the control group using the traditional pencil-and-paper approach. The study investigated the effects of the hands-on system on the perceptual, sequential, and operative apprehension, and on overall spatial geometry scores and learning attitude. The results indicated improvements on effective learning and a higher level of sequential, operative apprehension, and overall spatial geometry scores from the experimental group.

Keywords:

• spatial geometry
• mathematics
• mobile devices
• mental imagery
• imagery and visualization

Acknowledgments

This study is supported by the National Science Council of Taiwan under contract numbers NSC102-2911-I-003-301.

Notes on contributors

Kuo-En Chang is a Professor in Graduate Institute of Information and Computer Education, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan, Principal of the National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei, Taiwan. His research interests include Mobile learning, Knowledge management, Simulation learning and Game-based learning. He has authored or co-authored 3 books and over 225 papers in international journals and conferences.

Ms. Lin-Jung Wu is a Ph.D. student in Graduate Institute of Information and Computer Education National Taiwan Normal University Taipei, Taiwan. Her research interests include Mobile learning, Simulation learning, Game-based learning, Mathematics learning, Formative assessment using mobile devices, Cognitive disnostic assessment. She has authored or co-authored over 25 papers in international journals and conferences.

Ms. Shing-Chuang Lai is a Graduate student in Graduate Institute of Information and Computer Education National Taiwan Normal University Taipei, Taiwan. His research interests include Mobile learning, mathematics learning, formative assessment.

Dr. Yao-Ting Sung is a Professor in Department of Educational Psychology and Counseling, National Taiwan Normal University Taipei, Taiwan, Director of the Top University Project office in National Taiwan Normal University Taipei, Taiwan, Chief of the Psychological and Education Testing Center. His research interests include Mobile device applications in informal settings, such as museums; Real-time assessment using mobile devices; Psychological and Education Testing. He has authored or co-authored 9 books and over 178 papers in international journals and conferences.