Virtual math objects with pedagogical, mathematical, and cognitive fidelity

Abstract

The examination of mathematical and cognitive fidelity for math related websites has been studied by Web designers; yet teachers, and especially pre-service teachers, as users of technology in the classroom, also need to be familiar with pedagogical, mathematical, and cognitive fidelity. What is pedagogical, mathematical, and cognitive fidelity; and, what makes a math website high in pedagogical, mathematical, and cognitive fidelity are discussed in this article. Evidence is shown that technology high in pedagogical, mathematical, and cognitive fidelity, when used in the classroom, improves student academic achievement. © 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.