Learning Geometric Translations in a Dynamic Geometry Environment

Yanik H. B.

EGITIM VE BILIM-EDUCATION AND SCIENCE, vol.38, no.168, pp.272-287, 2013 (SSCI) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 38 Issue: 168
  • Publication Date: 2013
  • Journal Name: EGITIM VE BILIM-EDUCATION AND SCIENCE
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.272-287
  • Keywords: Geometric translations, technology, GeoGebra, prospective teachers, teacher education, SOFTWARE
  • Anadolu University Affiliated: No

Abstract

Dynamic learning environments provide a variety of opportunities for learners to explore mathematical concepts. The purpose of this study was to explore the nature of the growth of 4 prospective middle school mathematics teachers' understanding of geometric translations in a technology mediated environment using GeoGebra as a pedagogical medium. Individual teaching experiment methods were used to examine the progress of prospective teachers' understanding of geometric translations. The study design included three phases: (1) semi-structured clinical interviews; (2) teaching episodes; and (3) a retrospective analysis of the semi-structured clinical interviews and teaching episodes. The findings of the study indicated that the availability of the dynamic geometry software supported the teacher candidates' understanding of geometric translations. Specifically, the dragging and measurement features of the program enabled teacher candidates to explore the properties of geometric translations, make conjectures, employ various strategies, and construct new understandings.