A framework for monitoring progress and planning teaching towards the effective use of computer algebra systems
- Authors: Pierce, Robyn , Stacey, Kaye
- Date: 2004
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: International Journal of Computers for Mathematical Learning Vol. 9, no. 1 (2004), p. 59-93
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- Description: This article suggests a framework to organise a cluster of variables that are associated with students' effective use of computer algebra systems (CAS) in mathematics learning. Based on a review of the literature and from the authors' own teaching experience, the framework identifies the main characteristics of students' interactions with CAS technology and how these may be used to monitor students' developing use of CAS; from this, the framework may be used to plan teaching in order to gain greater benefit from the availability of CAS. Four case studies describing students' development over a semester are reported. These demonstrate a variety of combinations of technical competencies and personal attributes. They indicate the importance of both the technical and personal aspects but suggest that negative attitudes rather than technical difficulties can limit the effective use of CAS. Finally practical suggestions are given for teaching strategies which may promote effective use of CAS.
- Description: C1
- Description: 2003000923
Virtual online teaching in transport law
- Authors: Michael, Spisto , Christine, Lee
- Date: 2018
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Victoria University Law and Justice Journal Vol. 8, no. 1 (2018), p. 33-43
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- Description: The virtual classroom is a new and modern structure used now in university teaching around the world. By using the virtual classroom in Transport Law, it was soon discovered that once one overcomes the technical issues, the virtual classroom provides university tuition to students in very advantageous ways like no other traditional face-to-face class can. The virtual classroom, with its numerous functionalities, provides a level of student class participation, which is unprecedented in face-to-face classes. It also allows a greater opportunity for student attendance, as students simply have to be in front of their computer or any hand-held device, which is capable of audio-visual linkups. It is also very appealing to students, as it saves them time and money with public transport and/or parking. A much improved classroom attendance record as compared to face-to-face classes has also been noticed. The students' levels of understanding of the subject matter have also vastly improved through the mechanisms employed in virtual classroom teaching. As technology improves on a daily basis, the virtual classroom will become more and more popular as students rely on online teaching. Universities also need to understand that technology is here to stay and this means that they need to place more and more emphasis on online virtual classroom teaching eventually, it is submitted that if some of the universities do not highlight the importance of online teaching and virtual classrooms, students will simply shop elsewhere until they find a place of teaching that supports the online virtual classroom structure in the courses they wish to undertake.
A living chessboard : make your own medieval world
- Authors: Waldron, David , Donovan, Paul
- Date: 2019
- Type: Text , Journal article
- Relation: Agora (Melbourne, Vic.) Vol. 54, no. 3 (2019), p. 44-49
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- Description: Teaching through engaging students with excursions, artefacts, objects and practical projects is an effective way to communicate ideas about a past way of life. In Australia, we have a rich choice of destinations for many topics, but medieval history is not one of them. We don't want our medieval students to miss out on the benefit and excitement, simply because medieval action took place on the other side of the world, and for most schools a medieval incursion is more practical than a trip to Europe. If resources permit, you could contact a specialist company, such as History Up Close, which has years of experience in replicating historical material culture and presenting to schools, or you could take the do-it-yourself path and create a medieval world in the classroom with common craft materials.