Implementing GeoGebra integrated with multi-teaching approaches guided by the APOS theory to enhance students’ conceptual understanding of limit in Ethiopian Universities

Abstract

The notion of limit is one of the fundamental concepts which underpins advanced calculus of one or more variables in the field of analysis. However, understanding the concept of limit has been an impenetrable problem for many students in Ethiopian Universities. Only very few literatures were documented focusing on overcoming the difficulty of learning the concept of limit. For this reason, the overarching aim of the present study is to enhance students' conceptual understanding of limit by empowering their visualization skills using GeoGebra integrated with multi-teaching approaches. The study employed mixed methods experimental (intervention) design within an APOS paradigm. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Qualitative data was collected using students' reflections and interviews, whereas quantitative data was collected through pretest and posttest using diagnostic tests. The results of the qualitative data analysis revealed that the learning milieu created a positive impact on students' understanding of the concept of limit. Additionally, students provided coherent and viable reasons while making mental constructions and their coordination in the learning process based on the genetic decomposition grounded in APOS theory. Furthermore, the results of the quantitative (posttest) data analysis proved that students' mean scores on conceptual understanding of limit in the experimental group was significantly better than those in the control group. Thus, it could be possible to conclude that students’ conceptual understanding of limit is improved using GeoGebra integrated with multi-teaching approaches within an APOS paradigm. The findings open a great opportunity to suggest technology integrated mathematics curriculums for the teaching and learning of mathematics.