Evaluating the Use of Wolfram Alpha for Linear Algebra Learning in Teleducation

Abstract

The use of ICTs in mathematics learning has the potential to improve academic performance in an interactive environment. Teleducation in COVID times demands the active use of technological tools, thus generating the need to determine which tools are suitable for the different branches of mathematics. This work evaluates the use of the Wolfram Alpha tool in the teaching of Linear Algebra in teleducation in COVID times. This tool was selected because of its ease of use, detailed answers and because it does not require software installation. The research was applied to second semester engineering students, dividing the students into a control group and an experimental group. Pre- and post-treatment test results were statistically analyzed to detect whether there was an increase in academic performance. Students using Wolfram Alpha completed a survey and interview to assess their perception of the tool. The experimental group performed better than the control group. The use of Wolfram Alpha was well accepted by the students suggesting its future use in Linear Algebra courses for tele-education and even face-to-face education in post-pandemic times.