Exploring the role of visualisation in teaching concept of functions: a case of Further Education and Training (FET) phase students
- Author
- Magaya, Noel
- Title
- Exploring the role of visualisation in teaching concept of functions: a case of Further Education and Training (FET) phase students
- Abstract
-
This study investigated the role of visualisation in the teaching of concept functions for Further Education and Training phase students. A qualitative method approach was employed combining focus group interviews, teacher interviews and class observations to gather data from a sample of 24 Further Education and Training phase students from one high school in Gauteng province, South Africa. The population was made up of 80 Further Education and Training phase students from one High School that are studying mathematics and encounter function concepts. Stratified random sampling was used to select 24 students from 130 students studying mathematics at FET phase for semi-structured interviews in focus groups made up of 6 students each and 5 teachers from the 50 teachers teaching the learners at this school. In addition, 5 lesson observations on concept functions were conducted.
The findings reveal that students retain function concepts better when visualisation tools are used during the teaching of concept functions. Teachers echoed these benefits, noting that visualisation reduces misconceptions, supports diverse learners, and fosters positive learner attitudes. However, implementation challenges were also reported, including limited device and internet access, insufficient teacher training in integrating technology, time constraints, and unequal student technological readiness.
The results have implications for teaching and learning concept functions at Further Education and Training phase. Recommendations were made for instructors to emphasise visualisation, provide opportunities for practice, and address common misconceptions explicitly. The study contributes to the existing body of research on mathematics education and highlights the need for targeted interventions to support students' learning of concept functions.
- Date
- August 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- visualisation
- teaching
- Education and Training (FET)
- Supervisor
- Dr. G. Sunzuma
- Media
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Magaya, Noel.pdf