Options
Using dynamic geometry software in teaching geometry proof
Citation
Ho, F. H., & Leong, Y. H. (2010, August). Using dynamic geometry software in teaching geometry proof [Paper presentation]. 5th East Asia Regional Conference on Mathematics Education, Tokyo, Japan.
Abstract
In this paper, we report an exploratory study on the use of Geometer's Sketchpad (GSP) to help students learn geometry proofs. We take the stance that learning geometry proofs is meaningful if students are given opportunities to discover geometric properties themselves and to prove what they have discovered. In our approach to teaching the topic on Circle Properties, leading to geometry proof related to the topic, we scaffolded the students' learning using GSP through progressive stages. One key innovation in this project is to include GSP as one component in assessments. This is to reflect the importance of investigative work they have done through GSP during their lessons. We used a perception survey to gather students' feedback on the approach taken to teaching the topic on Circle Properties and geometry proofs. The survey consisted six Likert-type questions. The results indicated that a majority of the students found GSP a useful tool in learning geometry, including proofs. However, there was still a significant number of students who were not ready to fully harness the potential of GSP. Nevertheless the results provide us with sufficient encouragement to fine-tune the lesson design for future implementation.
Date Issued
2010
Description
This paper was presented at the 5th East Asia Regional Conference on Mathematics Education, held in Tokyo, Japan from 18 – 22 Aug 2010