Learning, Design & Technology
Does it Compute?
Does it Compute?
Description of the Technology
Cabri is interactive geometry software that can be used on computers or Texas Instrument calculators. Cabri gives students the opportunity to explore geometric concepts by manipulating and analyzing virtual figures. Cabri is a unique among geometry software because it can be used on a computer or on TI calculators that many classrooms already have.
Classroom Use of the Technology
Cabri is interactive geometry software that can be used on computers or Texas Instrument calculators. Cabri gives students the opportunity to explore geometric concepts by manipulating and analyzing virtual figures. Cabri is a unique among geometry software because it can be used on a computer or on TI calculators that many classrooms already have.
Classroom Use of the Technology
Cabri is an effective tool for student exploration of geometry topics. A teacher can devise learning situations and leading questions to guide students to a deep understanding of the concepts.
Class time is valuable and geometry software reduces the time needed to construct figures. With Cabri, students can quickly create accurate and precise figures. Class time can then be used for exploring the mathematical properties which increases students’ opportunity to learn. Students construct figures with easy to use toolbars. The figures and equations can be manipulated to observe the effect of changes. Students make hypothesis and verify them with manipulations of figures. Cabri encourages deductive reasoning and active participation in that it does not explain but instead encourages students to analyze and develop an understanding of properties.
Class time is valuable and geometry software reduces the time needed to construct figures. With Cabri, students can quickly create accurate and precise figures. Class time can then be used for exploring the mathematical properties which increases students’ opportunity to learn. Students construct figures with easy to use toolbars. The figures and equations can be manipulated to observe the effect of changes. Students make hypothesis and verify them with manipulations of figures. Cabri encourages deductive reasoning and active participation in that it does not explain but instead encourages students to analyze and develop an understanding of properties.
Motivation
Students would be engaged by the interactive features of the software. The inquiry based lessons would motivate students to go beyond the basic concepts and develop new ways to test their hypothesis. Teachers can create many opportunities for students to share their excitement about what they are learning. After exploring triangles, the class could engage in class discussions to compare the results of their investigations. They could discuss any relationships they notice about the measurements of angles and side length. Students could also work co-operatively in small groups to do further testing on their theories and ideas. The Cabri II software can be installed in a computer lab for use during class time and Cabri Jr. can be downloaded onto select models of Texas Instruments calculators for use at home and outside of the computer lab.
As always, there will likely be students who don’t take full advantage of the classroom activities or are not interested in the learning activities. Students that are already intimidated by computers may not feel comfortable with the virtual learning environment.
Cognitive growthMiddle school teachers in Brazil took part in a research project on the difference in learning when students used Cabri software instead of traditional paper and pencil activities. They found that the dynamic aspect of the software impacted the way students solved the problems (Lima, 2007) .Many reviewers agree that students develop reasoning and logic skill as they explore geometric concepts:
Accounting for Individual Differences
Cabri is appropriate for many students-from third grade through university students. The type of challenge developed by the teacher can be adjusted to be appropriate for a wide range of grade and ability levels.
Although, there are many types of geometry software, Cabri is unique in that it is compatible with a calculator version.. Cabri Jr. is a free application that can be used on select Texas Instrument calculators. Files can be imported and exported to and from Cabri Jr., the calculator application, and Cabri II Plus, the PC software. Cabri can be used by a teacher using a projector to display images or by students working at computers. A new version of the software, Cabri 3D allows students to explore properties of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures, create algebraic expressions, and make connections between algebra and geometry.
Cognitive growthMiddle school teachers in Brazil took part in a research project on the difference in learning when students used Cabri software instead of traditional paper and pencil activities. They found that the dynamic aspect of the software impacted the way students solved the problems (Lima, 2007) .Many reviewers agree that students develop reasoning and logic skill as they explore geometric concepts:
“By using Cabri, you cannot go wrong. Students can develop their mathematical reasoning and logic and may even discover things that the teacher hadn’t thought about.” (Subasic, 2007)The value of Cabri lies in the learning experiences developed by the teacher. Because Cabri is an open-ended environment, students will need some guidance in order to achieve the learning objectives. Students who are just allowed to freely explore the environment, will not likely make the largest gains.
“I believe that the main benefit is that Cabri allows students to draw their own conclusions. The future of teaching mathematics begins with the visualization of mathematical problems and Cabri plays a part in this education of the future.” (Engström, 2007).
Accounting for Individual Differences
Cabri is appropriate for many students-from third grade through university students. The type of challenge developed by the teacher can be adjusted to be appropriate for a wide range of grade and ability levels.
Although, there are many types of geometry software, Cabri is unique in that it is compatible with a calculator version.. Cabri Jr. is a free application that can be used on select Texas Instrument calculators. Files can be imported and exported to and from Cabri Jr., the calculator application, and Cabri II Plus, the PC software. Cabri can be used by a teacher using a projector to display images or by students working at computers. A new version of the software, Cabri 3D allows students to explore properties of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures, create algebraic expressions, and make connections between algebra and geometry.
Innovativeness and Creativity
This software would be appropriate for most educational settings, including the public middle school in which I teach. The calculator version of the software could be used in the classroom whereas the computer software would require the use of a computer lab. Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students would require access to computers during class time for the duration of the geometry unit. Also, students would be able to continue the exploration and testing of hypothesis at home with the use of TI 83 calculators which would need to be purchased. The calculators come with linking cables so that students would be able to transfer files between the computer and calculators.
Curriculum
Dynamic mathematical software lends itself to the constructivist model of teaching. Also, students will develop syntactive knowledge of mathematics as they explore and develop an understanding of geometry.
Dynamic mathematical software lends itself to the constructivist model of teaching. Also, students will develop syntactive knowledge of mathematics as they explore and develop an understanding of geometry.
Ideas for Redesign of the Technology
I think that Cabri is a well designed and useful geometry software for older students. The buttons and menus would be difficult for younger students to use.
11 comments:
The usefulness of this software is highlighted by your comments about being able to use it in the lab, classroom and at home. Patrick Dickson, MSU professor, said we need to be able to reach students in new ways and extend their learning experiences. You captured that idea in your review of Cabri software.
Sounds like a good program to use. I teach 8th grade math and it would be a great tool to start creating simple constructions that students find soo hard to do.
Jillian, you did a great job in your evaluation of Cabri. By reading your evaluation, I think I have a good idea of the program. I don't presently teach math, but that may change (maybe even this coming school year!). Do you or anyone you know use this software?
Kelly
Jillian,
This sounds like a very neat program. Have you used it in your classroom before? I bet that it would allow for more class time in the long run.
Nice work!
Danelle
I really like the way that your blog looks. I think that the color and layout makes it appear as a professional site. Also, the screen shots help to clarify your descriptions. I will have to pass along your blog's information to our math department.
The color and graphics that you chose for this blog make it look very professional. I think that that screen shots do a great job of clarifying your evaluation comments. I am excited to pass the information along to our math department.
My mom taught math for 30 years and I remember watching her stay up late hand-writing graphs and questions and the like. This program seems likea great way to improve math education while lessening the workload for educators.
Hi Jillian,
Your software sounds very interesting. I was a terrible math student growing up. Anything that helps me see what I'm learning about would be a big plus. Plus I think using technology like this could get kids interested in math and increase motivation.
Zac
You have a great blog - Looks Great! I like the idea of having the students use this program to discover geometric properties. Would they need some pre-requiste knowledge first? Have you used this before? Is this program free? I understand it can be downloaded to a graphing calculator, but how about a computer? Printing capabilities? I'm teaching 7th grade math next year and am looking into integrating graphing technology into my curriculum.
You do a great job explaining the purpose of the software and how the students could use it in class. Really seems to bring to life the idea of graphing. Almost makes me wish I taught math...but then again...
You do a great job explaining the purpose of the software and how the students could use it in class. Really seems to bring to life the idea of graphing. Almost makes me wish I taught math...but then again...
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