Candidate: Kathryn G. Shafer

Degree of: Doctor of Philosophy

Department: Mathematics

Title: Two High School Teachers' Initial Use of Geometer's Sketchpad: Issues of Implementation

Committee: Dr. Tabitha Mingus, Chair
Dr. Dwayne Channell
Dr. Steven Ziebarth
Dr. Carol Crumbaught

Date: Friday, November 5, 2004 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
6625 Everett Tower, Alavi Commons

Abstract: Abstract: This study documents two teachers' instructional practices as they learn and incorporate Geometer's Sketchpad (GSP) activities into their curriculum. The researcher (as a mentor) worked closely with two high school geometry teachers following a case study methodology. As a secondary goal, this study examined the use of a mentor as a professional development model to assist classroom teachers in the learning and implementation of Geometer's Sketchpad. Data were gathered through interviews, surveys, observations, classroom videotape, participant journal entries, as well as researcher field notes. Results are reported in the areas of goals of instruction, method of instruction, role of the teacher, role of the student, and the role and source of curricular materials. Among the major findings include the close association between teachers' beliefs and teaching with GSP.

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