The use of computers in the teaching and learning of functions in school Mathematics in Eritrea

Abstract

This article reports on an empirical investigation in which quantitative and qualitative methods were utilised to determine the effect of the use of computers on Grade 11 Eritrean Mathematics learners' mastery of the quadratic function concept. MS Excel and RJS Graph software were used to teach this topic, which is usually regarded as difficult subject matter, to an experimental group. The results of this study indicated that the use of computers had a positive impact on learners' achievement, problem-solving skills, exploration of mathematical ideas, motivation, attitude, and classroom interactions. In particular, computer use reduced the tedium of creating tables and drawing graphs and enabled learners to analyse functions and their graphs more easily, represent functions in different ways and solve real life problems using these programmes. Moreover, learners were more motivated to explore the nature and properties of functions and their graphs both on their own or in a group, make conjectures, and verify their findings. Taking into consideration the limitations in schooling in developing countries, the utilisation of computer technology can contribute to the advancement of Mathematics learning, which is a very important issue.

Keywords:

• Mathematics education
• computers in education
• teaching of functions
• teaching of algebra