Computers as a Tool to Empower Students and Enhance Their Learning Experience: A Social Sciences Case Study

Abstract

Computers in mathematics education help foster abstract concepts and solve problems that are unsolvable by hand. Moreover, students whose major does not have a mathematical background often struggle with the topic and may require learning aid. Although extensive research has been conducted on the effect of computers and different software in learning, students’ perception on computers to solve mathematical problems has scarcely been studied. In this work, a group of undergraduate social sciences students were given computers to learn mathematics and solve contextual real-life problems, with the aim of facilitating learning and providing empowerment. After the courses, the students were asked their perception of computers and mathematics to obtain descriptive results on their perception. Responses indicated that with computers, students felt learning and solving mathematics problems was easier (85% of the answers), they felt more confident about their skills (69%), and could think of new ways to solve problems (54%). Moreover, a text analysis was conducted using software to assess open-ended questions, and the results indicated that most answers were positive in nature. Additionally, the students were given the chance to rate the mathematics course using computers, and the course received a rating of 9.5/10, indicating the methodology was liked.