MOOC, a virtual environment for mathematical problem solving

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the way participants of a Massive Open Online Curse (MOOC) accomplish the processes of problem-solving when they use GeoGebra and interacts in forum discussions. The processes were analyzed according to: the construction of dynamic representations of the problems; the exploration of different properties and relationships between its elements; and, the use of strategies such as dragging objects, quantification of its attributes and locus identification. Virtual ethnography was the used method to analyze the asynchronous communication between participants in the forums. The problem-solving process started a conversation, that is, a network of interactions that led to the use of new solution strategies and the construction of new knowledge, where the participants were able to advance at their own pace and to break with geographical and temporary limitations. The interactions in the forums took place between people with different professional activities or academic degrees.