SOLVING DIFFICULTIES WHEN LEARNING GEOMETRY IN AN INITIAL VOCATIONAL QUALIFICATION PROGRAMME CLASS

Our proposal is an attempt to identify and deal with the learning difficulties in the area of Geometry in the class of the Initial Vocational Qualification Programme (PCPI in Spanish) and to elaborate the planning, development and assessment of a new didactic unit in order to correct the deficiencies observed in the students' learning. The PCPI is a formative programme of theoretical-practical nature within the Spanish Compulsory Secondary Education System which entitles students to carry out a profession in a qualified way, to further access employment and/or the return to the educational system.

Firstly, we describe the problem that has been noticed, after testing the students, and the objectives to be implemented. A lack of knowledge of Geometry is observed, especially in the application of Pythagoras' theorem as well as in the identification of plane figures, the approach and solution of problems, etc. Consequently, a new planning has been developed while designing new activities and using updated resources and classroom methodologies, which consist of a series of activities different from those presented up to now, such as computer tasks and games aimed to achieve a better understanding of Geometry. During the sessions established to teach the new didactic unit, we have been observing the students' progress through the knowledge taught and also their interest to better themselves and, on the other hand, sometimes the scarce interest in the subject of Mathematics. Secondly, we explain the mechanisms for teacher’s evaluation, materials, activities and processes so as to modify some aspects, if possible, since it is necessary to assess all these points. Finally, after judging the success or the failure obtained by means of the activities done, new tasks have been suggested to a better comprehension of the contents of Geometry, particularly in the classes of the Initial Vocational Programme. Moreover, the students’ education and their work habits have been enhanced, which is the most essential fact.