The teaching of second level calculus at South African technikons : a didactical analysis of specific learning problems

• Main Author: Smith, Julien Clifford
• Other Authors: Van Rooy, M. P. (Martinus Paul), 1948-
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: 2015
• Subjects: Trigonometrical identities; Function; Tutorials; Word problems; Teaching problems; Student problems; Learning problems; Time factor; Student questionnaire; Staff questionnaire; Computer questionnaire; Didactical analysis; Second level calculus; 515.071168; Calculus > Study and teaching (Higher)
• Online Access: Smith, Julien Clifford (1994) The teaching of second level calculus at South African technikons : a didactical analysis of specific learning problems, University of South Africa, Pretoria, <http://hdl.handle.net/10500/16069>; http://hdl.handle.net/10500/16069

This study was prompted by serious problems regarding specific teaching and learning problems in calculus at the technikon. The general aims were to identify and analyze particular teaching and learning problems relating to 2nd level engineering courses in calculus and to recommend improvements which could increase student performance in engineering calculus courses. An extensive study revealed world wide concern in calculus reform. The empirical research instruments consisted of structured questionnaires given to staff and students from nine technikons plus interviews. Five serious problem areas were identified: student ability in mathematics, content difficulty, background difficulties, timetable pressures and lecturer's presentation. The impact of training technology on calculus was investigated. Recommendations were that routine exercises can be done on computer with extra tutorial time for computer laboratory projects. Background recommendations suggested that schools give more time to trigonometry and coordinate geometry and that bridging courses at technikons for weaker students be developed. === Curriculum and Instructional Studies === M. Ed. (Didactics)