Excel in GenMath: Using Spreadsheets in Teaching and Learning Piecewise Functions

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In promoting algebraic thinking and problem-solving, the use of spreadsheets or Microsoft Excel has offered a number of advantages. Excel functions may be directly used in translating and creating formulas for more efficient and accurate calculations. This study is aimed at exploring the use of spreadsheets (mobile Excel) in teaching and learning piecewise functions in General Mathematics to Grade 11 students.

METHODS

Using the ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation) Model, lessons were prepared. A Quasi-Experimental Design was used to analyze effectiveness of teaching piecewise functions by using mobile Excel. Two groups, ABM 1101 and ABM 1102 were conveniently chosen as the control and experimental groups, respectively. ABM 1101 was taught using mobile Excel while ABM 1102 was not. The groups' pre and posttest scores and performance task mistakes were compared.

RESULTS

It was found out that both groups performed better in the posttest than in the pretest. Overall, in both sections, learners scored higher in the posttest (M = 35.8, SD = 26.9) than in the pretest (M = 19.7, SD = 13.7). ABM 1101 (M = 37.1, SD = 27.5) learners who were taught with the use of Excel in the classroom scored higher than ABM 1102 (M = 34.4, SD = 26.5). Learners also were generally able to come up with a tax calculator using their mobile Excel’s If-Then-Else function given a tax table. Fourteen (14) learners were chosen for a discussion on the use of spreadsheets in teaching and learning functions using spreadsheets. The participants believe that learning piecewise functions together with the use of spreadsheets will be useful for them in the future. They pointed out that instead of manually computing for values, formulas may just be created so that outputs will automatically appear.

DISCUSSIONS

This indicates that the use of spreadsheets may be integrated in teaching and learning applications of piecewise functions. As a result of the interviews conducted, learners are generally happy about their Mathematics class when spreadsheets are used. They believe that the skills taught to them on using piecewise functions and using spreadsheets will be of help. This suggests that spreadsheets may be explored in teaching and learning other topics in General Mathematics or even in other subjects. With these results, a teacher's guide was developed that aims to assist teachers and learners in using and applying piecewise functions with mobile Excel.