
Mechanical linkages, interactive geometry software, and argumentation
Supporting a classroom culture of mathematical proof
Jill Vincent(Author)
LAP Lambert Academic Publishing
Published on 14. May 2010
Book
Paperback/Softback
412 pages
978-3-8383-0013-9 (ISBN)
Description
It is proof which sets mathematics apart from the empirical sciences, and forms the foundation of our mathematical knowledge, yet students often fail to understand the purpose of proof, they are unable to construct proofs, and instead readily accept empirical evidence or the authority of textbooks or teachers. This research focuses on the role of mechanical linkages (devices based on systems of hinged rods) and interactive geometric software as cognitive bridges between empirical justification and deductive reasoning. The provision of motivating contexts was found to foster conjecturing and argumentation, during which the eighth grade students in the project engaged in sustained deductive reasoning in support of their conjectures and achieved high levels of success with geometric proof. Mechanical linkages and their dynamic geometry computer simulations were shown by this research to be highly suitable contexts for bridging empirical and deductive reasoning.
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
Germany
Product notice
Paperback (trade)
Unsewn / adhesive bound
Dimensions
Height: 220 mm
Width: 150 mm
Thickness: 26 mm
Weight
631 gr
ISBN-13
978-3-8383-0013-9 (9783838300139)
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Schweitzer Classification
Person
Jill L. Vincent, BSc, MEd, PhD (University of Melbourne,Australia), was a mathematics teacher for many years. Currently aResearch Fellow in Mathematics Education at the University ofMelbourne.