Digital media have become increasingly important in recent years and can offer new possibilities for mathematics education in elementary schools. From our point of view, geometry and geometric objects seem to be suitable for the use of computer-aided design software in mathematics classes. Based on the example of Tinkercad, the use of CAD software — a new and challenging context in elementary schools — is discussed within the approach of domains of subjective experience and the Toulmin model. An empirical study examined the influence of Tinkercad on fourth-graders’ development of a model of a geometric solid and related reasoning processes in mathematics classes.
Spatial ability is considered a major factor of intelligence and is increasingly important in times of digitization. This article explores the fostering of spatial ability through computer-aided design software. Different notions of spatial ability will be discussed, and, finally, a concept consisting of five aspects will be described. In addition, literature reviews on the connection between the use of computers and the fostering of spatial ability, as well as on the use of 3D printing technology in mathematics education, are given. Building on this, a case study is presented which examines the work of two middle-school students using computer-aided design software within a workshop at the University of Siegen. From the data material, basic possible actions within such software are derived. These are, based on theory, connected with the five aspects of the specific concept of spatial ability used. The results show various perspectives for the fostering of spatial ability with computer-aided design software.
Online learning platforms take over a new role in education, especially in times of the Covid-19 pandemic. This paper will discuss pre-service teachers’ reflections on attitudes towards online learning platforms and the respective changes due to an online training of using this digital tool in mathematics classes. The special training took place in a bachelor seminar with fourteen participants on the use of digital media in mathematics education at the University of Siegen. Based on the ‘Tripartite Model of Attitude Structure’ which defines the psychological concept of attitude, data material about the pre-service teachers’ attitudes is gathered by pre- and post-reflection-questionnaires. A qualitative content analysis led to the formation of a system of six main categories and approximately 51 descriptors for pre-service teachers’ attitudes towards online learning platforms and especially their changes due to the online training of using these platforms. The descriptors can be a basis for further research studies on this topic.
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