ict use to improve mathematics learning in secondary schools rebecca hudson school of mathematics...

ICT Use to Improve Mathematics Learning in Secondary Schools

Rebecca HudsonSchool of Mathematics and Applied StatisticsUniversity of Wollongong

ACEC2010: DIGITAL DIVERSITY CONFERENCE

6-9 APRIL 2010, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

Mathematics and ICT???

Higher Order Thinking Skills

The problem….?

Integrating technology in mathematics does not appear to be happening!

How to address the problem?

Examine the: beliefs; attitudes; barriers; and knowledge (PD experience and needs)

of mathematics teachers towards using computer.

Initial model for predicting computer use

Background

International studies show that secondary mathematics teachers are still

not effectively

integrating computer technology in their classroom.

Related Literature

Teacher’s beliefs-mathematical tasks and pedagogical practices (Schoenfeld,1987)

Barrier to technology use: lack of professional development; and lack of access to computers (D’Sousa,

Sabita and Woods, 2003; Palmer, 2002).

Methodology/Research Design

Approach mixed model (Teddlie and Tashkkori, 2002)

Design Questionnaire Survey

Sampling 26 high schools, 114 teachers (NSWDET)

Data Analysis

Statistical model – ‘logistic regression analysis’

InternetLessonPlanSupportExcele

InternetLessonPlanSupportExceleUseP

984.0038.1415.2480.1044.51

984.0038.1415.2480.1044.5)(

Statistical model predicting computer use

Results

The results of the study show that:

training on EXCEL; and

the need for ongoing support

for the inclusion of technology in mathematics teaching are positively associated with computer use.

Lack of lesson plans

A teacher who wants training in EXCEL:

need [SIC] ongoing support for the inclusion of computer [SIC] in Mathematics teaching, preferred to be trained in the use of the Internet and

welcome [SIC] lesson preparation with technology integration

is more likely to adopt computer use in mathematics teaching and learning

Beliefs

BELIEFS

COMPUTER USENo effect

Conclusion

These results indicate that: computer policies(CP) and PD programs

integrating the use of ICT in mathematics -not effective

a need for more structured and PD programs for mathematics teachers

Recommendations

Therefore, it is highly recommended that:

a leadership role of school executives is needed to encourage teachers to use ICT in the mathematics classrooms.

Questions & Answers

Thank you for your participation!

Rebecca HudsonSchool of Mathematics & Applied Statistics

University of Wollongong

rh00@uow.edu.au