Mathletics
This is educational software for mathematics that is widely available in Australian schools. I have seen it used in both of my practicum experiences and it seems to be accepted and enjoyed by the students, mainly in years 7 to 9. The software can be used in two ways. The first is that the teacher assigns a task that all students must complete but it can be done at their own pace. This is usually revision on a unit of work and ‘drills’ the students on typical exercise problems the students may encounter. The second mode is that the students can test themselves against other students anywhere in the world at a particular level (age level). There is a time factor involved as to who can complete a series of related problems first. The students seem to particularly like the live ‘play’ mode.
One very good feature of the software is that it provides a help button. If a student is stuck on a problem, they can press the help key and it will then step them through slowly and meticulously on how the problem can be tackled and solved. The software also provides certificates when the user has accumulated certain levels based on a points system. A major plus is that the product is completely web-based and so it can be used at home (as homework) or at school (in a computer laboratory).
November 6, 2008 @ 5:16 pm
[...] Danny’s article on mathletics identified some web based mathematics learning software used at many Australian schools. I have worked with a class using this, and the students responded positively to it. There is an element of play in the software, where students create their own identity as a character, which they can add accessories to, if they successfully finish a section. The students were very focussed on the outcomes, and I found mathletics very useful. Year 11 and 12 students can also use it, and this provided an alternative learning experience that they enjoyed. In retrospect I can see how this approach fits in well with Resnick’s ideas. [...]
November 7, 2008 @ 11:14 am
[...] exercises, largely based on behaviorist theories (HSC Online, 2008). I agree with Danny, I think Mathletics is great tool but other than the added benefit of competition, how is it different from text book? [...]