Mathematics Teachers' Needs in Computer-based Geometric Environments

The presentation will report on a study that sought to understand the needs of experienced teachers who, for the first time, are teaching geometry in a computer-based exploratory environment rather than in the traditional environment of textbook, straight-edge and ruler. Insights into these needs were obtained through a qualitative casestudy, in which data was collected by observation, as well as from interviews with teachers and students and from participant journal entries. Analysis of the data showed that the four teachers participating in the study experienced an initial loss of control due to the new environment, in three categories: (1) Management control (they believed the new environment impaired their ability to maintain discipline), (2) Personal control (they were unable to determine their own expectations of the students and to assess students' achievement), and (3) Professional control (they felt they no longer had all the answers). As the teachers learned to use the new tools, however, they gained confidence in their ability to teach effectively with the new methods, and were even moved to reflect upon their previous teaching practices. Despite the apparent lack of discipline, the absence of specific expectations, and the changes in their professional role, they came to recognize and accept that in the new exploratory environment the students were learning geometry and enjoying it.