Information and Communication Technologies in Mathematics classrooms at the Secondary Level

Abstract

The research entitled "Information and Communication Technologies in Mathematics Classrooms at the Secondary Education Level", was conducted under the mixed research paradigm, of a prospective type, according to the treatment of the variables is post facto and the depth level was descriptive. The techniques used for data collection were the survey and the focus group.

The results highlight that private and state educational center students have access to cell phones in classrooms. As for ethnic groups, both Miskitus and Mestizos students have this device in the school. This behavior remains constant about students' gender since both men and women have access to cell phones, the most used technology in class.  The study revealed that students have a positive perception of the use of ICT in the classroom, even though its application is limited. Students mainly use the devices to search for information to complete tasks, as they consider them helpful for solving different exercises and preparing graphs and geometric figures.

Researchers found that only half of the teachers control technologies, hindering classroom implementation. Conversely, students noted the near absence of ICT use in the classroom. Students have demonstrated knowledge of multiple practical applications for learning math, like Photomath, YouTube, calculator, and Google. While teachers mentioned Geogebra, Mallmat, Graficadora and Quizmaker. In short, in the educational context, the use of ICT in mathematics classrooms encourages creativity and teamwork among students.