Conceptual understanding in a computer-assisted Algebra 1 classroom.

Abstract

Over the last several decades, technology has had a tremendous impact on all parts of our society. In education the calculator in the 1970's, the computer in the 1980's and the World Wide Web of the 1990's have bombarded us with advances, to such a degree that state and federal leaders along with national education organizations have put pressure on our schools to implement new standards and mandates. These implementations are asking schools to increase test scores while teaching with connectedness and understanding. This seems almost impossible with our mathematics curriculum.

This study explored this influence on algebra 1 students utilizing the CAI program Cognitive Tutor with those in a traditional direct instruction class. The students were tested pre and post for achievement and a subset of the sample, six from the control (direct instruction) group and six from the treatment (Cognitive Tutor) group, constructed concept maps throughout the study to be used as a measure of the conceptual understandings. The six students from the treatment group (Cognitive Tutor) went through an interview to attempt to understand what aspects of the Cognitive Tutor program they felt had the most influence on their sense making and understanding.

The analysis indicated that Cognitive Tutor, as a complete program, increases student achievement, deepens understanding and connectedness of concepts, and left them with a feeling that Cognitive Tutor had many characteristics that their best math teacher would possess. Although these analyses answered the questions of this study, future research is needed.

One solution districts are contemplating is using computer-assisted-instruction (CAI). Examining the potential for a CAI environment in the teaching, learning, and development of understanding of mathematics in an Algebra 1 classroom is the focus of this study. This study utilized a mixed methodology and focused on CAI's influence on algebra 1 students' developing conceptual understandings during a typical unit. The CAI program Cognitive Tutor has shown increases in student achievement (i.e. standardized tests) but a key issue is whether the students understand the concepts any better.