Computer-assisted independent study in mutivariate calculus

TL;DR

This paper presents an innovative interactive tool, Siacua, designed to enhance independent learning in multivariate calculus through feedback, assessment, and motivation, demonstrating positive impacts on student engagement and success.

Contribution

Introduction of Siacua, an interactive feedback and assessment system utilizing parameterized exercises to promote independent study in multivariate calculus.

Findings

Increased student motivation observed through data and surveys.

Effective reuse of parameterized questions in the system.

Positive impact on learning outcomes in multivariate calculus.

Abstract

Learning mathematics requires students to work in an independent way which is particularly challenging for such an abstract subject. Advancements in technology and, taking the student as the focus of his own learning, led to a change of paradigm in the design and development of educational contents. In this paper we describe the first experience with an interactive feedback and assessment tool (Siacua), based on parameterized math exercises, and explain how we use it to motivate student independent study in a multivariate calculus environment. We have defined an index about the subject, trying to make it consensual enough for being used in other courses about multivariate calculus. Then we have created a concept map, selected some existing parameterized true/false questions from PmatE project and classified them using our concept map, for being reused in our system. For complementing the course we have created about one hundred parameterized multiple choice question templates in system Megua and generated about one thousand instances for using in Siacua. Results based on data collected by this tool and also based on an informal survey are presented. This first experience allows us to conclude our approach has an important impact on student motivation and contributes to the success on learning multivariate calculus.