A symbolic manipulator to introduce pupils to algebra theory

Michele Cerulli (1) , Maria Alessandra Mariotti (1)

1 Department of Mathematics

Within the theoretical framework of Vygotsky's theory, the paper presents a new algebra software. The main features of the software are described and their potentialities are discussed. According to the Vygotskian theory, expressions and commands may be thought as external signs of the Algebraic theory, and as such, they may become instruments of semiotic mediation: In other terms they can be used by the teacher, in the concrete realisation of classroom activity, according to the motive of introducing pupils to syntactic manipulation as a theoretical activity.

Keywords: semiotic mediation; algebra symbol-manipulation skills; proving; formal algebra; algebra theories; theoretical thinkings; theory of instruments of semiotic mediation; technology enhanced learning (TEL); technology enhanced learning in mathematics (TELMA); instruments of semiotic mediation; conjecturing; operational-structural theory; symbolic manipulation; algebra as a theory; procedural-structural; structural-relational

Domains: Computer Science [cs]; Technology for Human Learning

Michele Cerulli, Maria Alessandra Mariotti. A symbolic manipulator to introduce pupils to algebra theory. Workshop W6 "Learning Algebra with the Computer, a Transdisciplinary Workshop", in "ITS 2000 The new condition of Learning and Training", 19-23 June 2000, 2000, Montreal, Canada. pp.41-48. ⟨hal-00190516⟩