You are here:

Effects of computer-enhanced instruction in college-level mathematics as determined by a meta-analysis
DISSERTATION

, The University of Tennessee, United States

The University of Tennessee . Awarded

Abstract

This study sought to determine the effect of computer-enhanced instruction (CEI) on college level mathematics. It proposed to reveal these effects by integrating existing studies by meta-analysis. The method for analyzing the study's data was Hembree's model for meta-analysis based on Glassian meta-analysis and the statistical procedures of Hedges.

Thirty studies collected from dissertations, journal articles and a manuscript accepted for publication fit the criteria for inclusion. These criteria included the requirement that enough information be reported to calculate effect size (ES).

In the study, CEI was defined to include one or more of the following instructional uses of computer technology: (1) demonstration--with a single computer overhead device for whole-class display; (2) calculator--with each student using a graphing or programmable calculator; or (3) laboratory--with all students (singly or in pairs) using microcomputers.

The study sought to answer 12 research questions related to effect of CEI on conceptual, procedural, and overall achievement. Effects investigated included type of technology used, testing with technology versus testing without using technology in CEI classes, instructional use of technology, and accessibility of technology.

Results of the study included the following: (1) procedural achievement had a slight adverse effect when students were denied use of technology when being tested; (2) using technology (computers and graphing calculators) during testing, although favorable, did not significantly affect, overall achievement; (3) students not allowed to use computers during testing were significantly and favorably affected on overall achievement; (4) instructional use of computers and graphing calculators as both tool and demonstration was the most beneficial to all achievement; (5) one important finding, although nonsignificant, was the slight negative effect on graphing calculator use limited to in-class and laboratory access on conceptual achievement; (6) computer technology was most beneficial to achievement, conceptual and overall, with significant findings. The drawing of inferences from this study must be done with caution due to the small sample size. However, the many positive indications resulting from the study warrant further investigation.

Citation

King, H.J. Effects of computer-enhanced instruction in college-level mathematics as determined by a meta-analysis. Ph.D. thesis, The University of Tennessee. Retrieved March 28, 2024 from .

This record was imported from ProQuest on October 23, 2013. [Original Record]

Citation reproduced with permission of ProQuest LLC.

For copies of dissertations and theses: (800) 521-0600/(734) 761-4700 or https://dissexpress.umi.com

Keywords