Programming and Technology Tools for Mathematics
MATH 515
Overall Course Reflection
Programming and Technology Tools for Mathematics was one of my favorite courses. Throughout it, we focused on how to incorporate technology into mathematics. I appreciate classes that are math specific, because there are lots of tools out there, and collaborating with people who teach the same thing that I do allows me to get in-depth on how I can truly incorporate this into my classrooms. Some of the tools that we focused on were Desmos (both the graphing software and the activity builder platforms), LaTeX, GeoGebra, and generative AI. I had worked with Desmos before, but this course allowed me to really dig in and work with how others use Desmos and interesting extra activities that I could use with students in my classroom.
We also worked extensively with LaTeX, which is a software system for typesetting documents. What sets LaTeX apart from software like Microsoft Word is its ability to deal with complex mathematics and other technical aspects. LaTeX was something that I had used before in my undergrad computer science classes, but I had never used it for math. We drafted a few papers using LaTeX, as well as formatting a quiz for students. I have taken many of the projects and ideas from this course and have now added them into my classroom.
Course Artifacts
Technology in Math Education LaTeX Paper
For this artifact, I used my final paper that was written entirely using LaTeX. This paper was about technology in mathematics education and how we as teachers should work to integrate it into our classroom. We also need be aware of selecting technology that balances both mathematical and cognitive fidelity, while avoiding common misuses of technology, such as over scaffolding. I included this as an artifact as it demonstrates much of my overall learning from this course. This paper also demonstrated my knowledge of LaTeX, including how to add figures and images, as well as formatting citations using BibTeX.
(Creation time: 6 hours)
Desmos Activity Builder
This artifact is an activity I created using Desmos Activity Builder. It covers Square Roots and is designed for an Algebra 1 classroom. It has a variety of self-checking features, which required me to add code to these slides. I also included slides that require students to work with groups and to think about the responses of their group members. There are slides that include error analysis, and extensions for students who really grasp the material. This lesson shows how I integrated tools that allow students to learn at their own pace while maintaining accountability, as they must complete each slide correctly before moving on. Using Desmos in this way not only supports students with varying levels of understanding but also makes learning feel more interactive and game-like, which increases motivation and participation. This artifact highlights my commitment to using technology purposefully to enhance learning experiences, differentiate instruction, and support all students in achieving mastery.
(Creation time: 7 hours)
Desmos Graph Project
This artifact is a demonstration of my use of the Desmos graphing calculator. For this assignment, we were tasked with finding an image and recreating it using Desmos equations. I used many types of equations, including linear, quadratic, and sinusoidal curves. I added different parameters to these equations so that they only displayed specific segments, included animation by using sliders, and showcased custom colors. I chose this artifact because it demonstrates my competence in the Desmos Graphing software. I have taken this project and incorporated it into my classroom. Minnesota students are able to use the Desmos calculator on their state MCA tests, so it is important that they are familiar with the software.
(Creation time: 10 hours)
Generative AI Paper
AI has had and will continue to have huge impacts on education and students. This artifact is a paper I wrote on generative AI and large language models such as ChatGPT. I first focused on what AI is and ethical concerns that AI raises. I then explored how teachers can use ChatGPT to help them in their own classrooms. I included this artifact because when teachers think about technology in the classroom, the first thought is always AI and how it impacts education. This artifact also demonstrates how teachers need to be able to constantly shift and evolve as technology does.
(Creation time: 2 hours)
LaTeX Unit Assessment
My final artifact for this course is a quiz that I wrote for my Intermediate Algebra class on quadratic equations. I included this artifact because it showcases my ability to use technology, such as LaTeX, to create professional, clear, and organized assessments for my students. Creating assessments in LaTeX allows me to format equations and mathematical expressions accurately and cleanly, which is essential for student understanding and accessibility. This artifact highlights my ability to design assessments that align with my instructional goals and evaluate student learning effectively, ensuring that I am meeting their needs and supporting their success in mathematics.
(Creation time: 3 hours)