Conceptual Visibility and Virtual Dynamics in Technology-scaffolded Learning Environments for Conceptual Knowledge of Mathematics

摘要

This article adds to the growing body of research surrounding the use of virtual manipulatives for mathematics learning. The study reported herein used five different virtual manipulatives from four different websites, all within a sixth grade unit on proportional thinking. While many studies have reported on student achievement when using virtual manipulatives, the researchers in this study consider achievement a baseline and evaluated the manipulatives from the perspective of the student, examining aspects of the virtual manipulatives that led to self-regulated learning behaviors, discovery and learning of the underlying mathematical concepts under study, constructive emotional connections to learning and more. From these findings of the study, a Multidimensional Virtual Manipulative Evaluation (MVME) Tool is developed as a means to evaluate the potential effectiveness of a virtual manipulative. Students' perceptions of welcome versus unwelcome scaffolds are also discussed within the context of virtual manipulatives.