Writing math: The elephant in the room


Use of multimedia in mathematics learning and teaching has traditionally been hampered by inability to write math easily, as one would on paper or on a whiteboard.  Interactive and naturally collaborative resources that are available for use in other subjects, such as wikis, blogs have had restricted use due to difficulties sharing mathamatics online, without the need to learn new conventions ('simple' linearised notation, or LaTex markup language via a drag and drop editor ) for writing mathematics using a keyboard.


The video shows one example of a drag and drop editor for use in an online discussion.  It is apparent that even this solution can be cumbersome to use.

Graphic tablets and online equivalents offer alternatives to writing mathematics for live presentations, and for use in semi-synchronous math discussions in blogs or elsewhere.  A few examples follow.

 

“Technology enhanced student-centered learning environments are not simply dichotomous alternatives to direct instruction; they represent alternative approaches for fundamentally different learning goals.” (Hannafin & Land, 1997, p. 197)

1. Better Simulations and Models

 
 

3. 

 
 

4. 

 
 

5. More Efficient Assessment

 
 

7

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tzR9jUCSniQ  Khan Academy (use of tablet)

 

Virtual Manipulatives

Probes and Sensors

Costa, C. (2007). The Curriculum in a community of practice. Sisifo, Educational Sciences Journal, 3, 85-96.

Hannafin, M. J., & Land, S. M. (1997). The foundations and assumptions of technology-enhanced student-centered learning environments. Instructional Science, 25, 167-202.