Rosamund Sutherland

The use of spreadsheets within the mathematics classroom

This paper examines the potential of the use of spreadsheets in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Consideration is given to the teachers role in structuring computer‐based learning environments so that pupils are encouraged to reflect on mathematical processes. Crucial aspects of the software which pupils need to learn in order to use the spreadsheet as a mathematical tool are identified, and a number of introductory activities aimed at addressing these aspects are included. Examples of spreadsheet activities related to different types of mathematical problems are also presented. Finally we include an example of pupils using a spreadsheet as a context for formalizing mathematical generalizations.

Pupil collaboration and teacher intervention in the Logo environment

The Logo Maths Project was a longitudinal study of the use of Logo within the mathematics curriculum which took place from 1983–1986. Systematic data was collected for four pairs of case study pupils (aged 11–14 years) throughout the three years of the Project. This paper points to some of the cognitive effects of peer collaboration in this computer environment. It also presents a categorisation of teacher interventions in the learning process and discusses the research findings concerning the effects of intervention. Conclusions are drawn which point to the importance of developing computer based environments structured to optimise mathematical learning whilst maintaining a spirit of exploration and experimentation.