The Effect of the Texas Instrument Interactive Instructional Environment on the Mathematical Achievement of Eleventh Grade Low Achieving Students

Abstract

Teaching and learning mathematics with technology poses a unique dilemma. If technology is to enhance mathematical achievement (NCTM, 2000), why do documented studies indicate that this may not be the case (Waxman, Connell, & Gray, 2002)? This study looks at the learning environment used when teaching with technology. What in the instructional environment actually maximizes technology's ability to increase mathematical achievement? The instructional environment used with Texas Instrument InterActive software is examined to determine its affect on the mathematical achievement of eleventh grade at-risk students when studying quadratic functions. The Texas Instrument instructional environment uses technology to manipulate mathematical objects to observe patterns, make generalizations, and test conjectures. Technology is used as a tool to perform action on objects and to problem solve.