Virtual Manipulative Materials in Secondary Mathematics: A Theoretical Discussion

Authors

Immaculate Kizito Namukasa, The University of Western OntarioFollow
Darren Stanley, University of WindsorFollow
Martin Tuchtie, The University of Western OntarioFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2009

Journal

Journal of Computers in Mathematics and Science Teaching

Volume

28

Issue

3

First Page

277

Last Page

307

Abstract

With the increased use of computer manipulatives in teaching there is need for theoretical discussions on the role of manipulatives. This article reviews theoretical rationales for using manipulatives and illustrates how earlier distinctions of manipulative materials must be broadened to include new forms of materials such as virtual manipulatives which are also useful tools in a larger collection of learning tools. applying a theoretical lens to a specific material—polynomial tiles—this article demonstrates the following: (a) a complementary relationships between virtual and concrete manipulatives, (b) two or more theories can appropriately justify the same material, and (c) exploration of a specific manipulative may generate novel theoretical rationales. This exploration has proven to be helpful in the process of designing, selecting, categorizing and evaluating learning tool.

Citation of this paper:

Namukasa, I. K., Stanley, D., & Tuchtie, M. (2009). Virtual Manipulative Materials in Secondary Mathematics: A Theoretical Discussion. Journal of Computers in Mathematics and Science Teaching, 28(3), 277–307.