Learning Functions Through Vending Machines

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

James Austin Callahan (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: Given the prevalence of function concepts in high school math classes, students need todevelop a deep conceptual understanding of the topic. Technology tasks have become a frequenttool used in the high school classroom to teach functions. Technology is thought to enhancestudents' understanding of functions and foster a deeper understanding. The Vending MachineTask, through GeoGebra, provides students with various virtual vending machines to makeselections and determine if each machine is a function or not. In this study, I have explored theeffectiveness of technology centered tasks, such as the Vending Machine Task, and studied thestrategies and academic language used while completing the task. My findings will show thatthe Vending Machine Task, and other technology tasks, expand students" thinking of functionsand help build deeper conceptual understanding.

Additional Information

Publication

Thesis

Language: English

Date: 2020

Keywords

Functions, High School Math

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