Thinking Algebraically: Pupil Models Developed in Logo and a Spreadsheet Environment

Abstract

Project AnA is concerned with investigating the ways in which pupils’ experiences with Logo and a spreadsheet environment influence their learning of algebraic ideas. The computer activities can loosely be described as programming although the emphasis is on the learning of mathematics. The study focuses on both the models developed within the computer environment and on how these models might influence pupils’ work with “paper and pencil” algebra. The emphasis is on thinking and interacting with symbolic language as opposed to first developing a method and then translating this method into the appropriate symbolism. The results indicate that in both computer environments the models developed by pupils are as much linked to the problem situations as they are to aspects of the computer environment and individual pupils. Within this paper we describe the ways in which pupils can develop a more algebraic approach to problem solving in mathematics, discussing how this relates to their engagement in computer-based situations.KeywordsPupil modelsprogrammingspreadsheetsalgebraic processes