Discovery Learning and the Computational Experiment in Higher Mathematics and Science Education: A combined approach

Abstract

In this article we present our research for Discovery learning in relation to the computational experiment for the instruction of Mathematics and Science university courses, using the approach of the computational experiment through electronic worksheets. The approach is based on the principles of Discovery learning expanded with the principles of constructivist, socio-cultural and adult learning theories, the concept of computer based cognitive tools and the aspects on which the computational experiment is founded. Applications are presented using the software Mathematica and electronic worksheets for selected domains of Physics. We also present a case study, concerning the application of the computational experiment through electronic worksheets in the School of Pedagogical and Technological Education (ASPETE) during the spring semester of the academic year 2008-2009. Research results concerning the impact of the above mentioned issues on students' beliefs and learning performance are presented.