Date of Award
2003
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Fischler Graduate School of Education And Human Services
Advisor
Susanne Flannelly
Committee Member
Soledad Argüelles
Committee Member
Barbara Packer
Committee Member
Maryellen Maher
Keywords
Educational Technology, elementary school mathematics, elementary school teachers, geometric concepts, mathematics education, mathematics instruction, microworlds, online Java applets, preservice elementary teachers, spatial ability, spatial visualization, teacher education, technology uses in education, web-based instruction
Abstract
Spatial visualization is critical in learning and using geometry and other mathematics, science, and various technologies. Many preservice teachers lacked the spatial visualization skills and knowledge necessary to effectively teach a rich elementary mathematics curriculum. This applied dissertation was designed to improve preservice elementary teachers’ spatial visualization skills.
The author used online Java applets to deliver spatial visualization instruction in a geometry course for preservice elementary teachers. Data was collected from convenience samples formed from two intact classes. There were 27 students in the treatment group and 22 students in the control group. Participants worked independently, outside of class, using Web-based activities. Pretest-posttest data was gathered using the MGMP Spatial Visualization Test and the CDASSG Van Hiele Test. Additionally a questionnaire was used to assess participants’ confidence in using various technologies in teaching spatial visualization to children; and performance on classroom assessment was examined.
Analysis of data indicated that online Java applets are a practical instructional technology in a course for preservice teachers. After online activites, students’ scores on the MGMP Test increased significantly (p< .01, n=17). Most participants also reported that they felt prepared to teach children spatial visualization using various tools, including online computer activities. A moderate to strong correlation (Spearman r=0.654, n=32) was found between the MGMP and Van Hiele Test scores. Preliminary evidence was collected that suggested students’ understanding of angle rotation may have improved after use of an online version of the Logo programming language.