Designing Math Trails for Enhanced by Mobile Learning Realistic Mathematics Education in Primary Education

Authors

  • Georgios Fesakis University of the Aegean LTEE Dimokratias 1 85132, Rhodes Greece +302241099151
  • Pascalina Karta University of the Aegean
  • Kontantinos Kozas University of the Aegean

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3991/ijep.v8i2.8131

Keywords:

Learning design, m-learning, Realistic Mathematics Education, Math Trails

Abstract


Seeking a systematic combination of the pedagogical model of m-learning with the Realistic Mathematics Education (RME) approach, this study concerns the use of math trail as a learning activity model that can take the advantages of mobile computing devices for the design of effective learning experiences in an authentic context. The paper presents the design and the case study of the first pilot implementation of a math trail, using mobile devices for primary school students. In this math trail, the students are guided, through a digital map, to a sequence of preselected sites of a park where they solve specially designed math problems using data from the environmental context. The students measure real objects’ dimensions either with conventional instruments or by measurement applications of their tablet. According to the findings of the study, students solved the puzzles by applying mathematical knowledge, discussion and collaboration. The students applied and reinforced their knowledge through an effective and engaging learning activity. Moreover, the students were puzzled about the differences of the measurements by conventional and digital instruments and this confusion triggered social negotiation. Further research is needed for a grounded theory development about m-learning design for RME.

Author Biographies

Georgios Fesakis, University of the Aegean LTEE Dimokratias 1 85132, Rhodes Greece +302241099151

Department of Pre-School Education and Educational Design Associate Professor

Pascalina Karta, University of the Aegean

Primary Education Teacher Postgraduate Student

Kontantinos Kozas, University of the Aegean

Pysical Education Teacher PhD Student

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Published

2018-05-02

How to Cite

Fesakis, G., Karta, P., & Kozas, K. (2018). Designing Math Trails for Enhanced by Mobile Learning Realistic Mathematics Education in Primary Education. International Journal of Engineering Pedagogy (iJEP), 8(2), pp. 49–63. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijep.v8i2.8131

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Section

Papers