Multiplayer activities that develop mathematical coordination

Four computer applications are presented that encourage students to develop “mathematical coordination” — the ability to manipulate numerical variables in cooperation with other students so as to achieve a definite goal. The programs enable a form of computer-supported cooperative learning (CSCL). In this paper we describe the rationale and design of the programs, the results of an informal evaluation, and possible future work. The games were developed using a special software and hardware environment that facilitates the rapid prototyping of computer-based cooperative-learning materials. This research is part of an ongoing project entitled “Mathematics Experiences Through Image Processing” whose objective is to develop and test educational materials that introduce K-12 students to mathematical ideas within the context of digital image processing activities.