On Instructor's Role in a Technologised Learning Environment

Abstract

In many British universities service courses in mathematics, science and engineering use computer and electronic technology in teaching and learning. There is ample evidence that although students learn to use computer packages to complete assignment requirements, they do not develop adequate understanding of the concepts involved. In this talk I will introduce the Japanese mathematical software GRAPES, which was tested by my research colleagues and I both in Japan in the UK on students, 2003-4, and show how it can be used by the instructor for concept teaching. On the basis of this experiment it will be suggested that a key role for the instructor in a technologised learning environment is to empower students to use technology more effectively by deepening their knowledge base using teaching software like GRAPES.