Abstract:

Repeating patterns are commonly found in preschool activities and primary mathematics teaching. Patterns are useful for developing the ability to identify relationships and rules by which the pattern has been created, as well as the application of algorithmic thinking. We developed a collection of educational applets about linear patterns, which are ordered by difficulty and available on www.delmat.info. The methodological framework for development of the applets was design based research. Applets for educational intervention were repeatedly verified and rebuilt according to children’s requirements. During the process of verification, we used real and virtual manipulative. The aim of this study is to briefly describe the process of creating of applets and present research findings from verification of the applets. The aim of the research was to observe the quality of applets from the primary teachers' point of view. The research tool was the questionnaire. The quantitative analyse of observations showed very positive and positive ratings of three aspects of the applets (professional & educational; computing & technical and design aspects). The qualitative analyses of research data showed that applets were useful for teachers in their educational process and that applets are useful for different groups of children according their interests, abilities, and needs. At the same time the teachers formulated several comments and suggestions about positive or negative aspects of applet’s collection.

Keywords:

Applet, repeating patterns, quality of educational software, primary teachers opinions.