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Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

2007

Science and Mathematics Education

Brigham Young University

Calculus

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Full-Text Articles in Education

Discovering The Derivative Can Be "Invigorating:" Mark's Journey To Understanding Instantaneous Velocity, Charity Ann Gardner Hyer Jul 2007

Discovering The Derivative Can Be "Invigorating:" Mark's Journey To Understanding Instantaneous Velocity, Charity Ann Gardner Hyer

Theses and Dissertations

This is a case study using qualitative methods to analyze how a first semester calculus student named Mark makes sense of the derivative and the role of the classroom practice in his understanding. Mark is a bright yet fairly average student who successfully makes sense of the derivative and retains his knowledge and understanding. The study takes place within a collaborative, student-centered, task-based classroom where the students are given opportunity to explore mathematical ideas such as rate of change and accumulation. Mark's sense making of the derivative is analyzed in light of his use of physics, Mark as a visual …


Probing For Reasons: Presentations, Questions, Phases, Kellyn Nicole Farlow Jul 2007

Probing For Reasons: Presentations, Questions, Phases, Kellyn Nicole Farlow

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis reports on a research study based on data from experimental teaching. Students were invited, through real-world problem tasks that raised central conceptual issues, to invent major ideas of calculus. This research focuses on work and thinking of the students, as they sought to build key ideas, representations and compelling lines of reasoning. This focus on the students' and their agency as learners has brought about a new development of the psychological and logical perspectives, as well as, highlighted students' choices in academic and social roles. Such choices facilitated continued learning among these students.