The impact of simulation in the teaching and learning of transformation at ‘O’ Level: A case of Mlichi Secondary School in Hurungwe District.

Author

Mlambo, Solomon

Title

The impact of simulation in the teaching and learning of transformation at ‘O’ Level: A case of Mlichi Secondary School in Hurungwe District.

Abstract

The nature of the topic of transformation in mathematics makes teaching and learning difficult as students fail to understand the abstract concepts as they fail to visualize the movements, rotation, translation, enlargement, the shear, amongst others of objects amongst others. In an endeavor to make students have the conceptual understanding of transformation the study investigated the use of simulation in teaching the topic of transformation at Ordinary level at Mlichi secondary school. The students were exposed to digital simulation and an evaluation was made thereafter. To assess the change of perspectives on the topic, a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative assessment with qualitative analysis of students’ and teachers’ perceptions and experiences was employed. Also, the study made use of the purposive sampling technique in selecting the respondents and a sample size of thirty-three participants was developed, that is, thirty students, two mathematics teachers and one administrator. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected simultaneously and analyzed separately. Data was collected using in class pre-and post-tests, interviews and questionnaires and these were administered to the subjects prior and after the exposure to digital simulation and the results were compared. Analysis of the results revealed significant improvements in learners’ performance in the topic of transformation after they were exposed to digital simulation. This was evidenced by increased learners’ participation and engagement. Study findings revealed that shortage of resources and teachers’ incompetence are a hindrance towards usage of simulation. Based on the findings, the research also identified and evaluated potential interventions to address the identified challenges. Strategies which were considered included teacher training programs, as well as engagement of various stakeholders to ensure resource mobilization.

Date

June 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Simulation

Learners

Transformation

Population

Technology,

Supervisor

Dr. T. Chikerema