SGER- Developing Mathematical and Algorithmic Intuition in Inner-City Minority Students: A Pilot Project

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9450532 York This project investigates the use of virtual reality technology as an aid in the development of abstract concepts from mathematics and physical science in African-American students at the secondary school level. These students will explore in a multi-modal fashion abstract concepts which derive from the very basic notions of polygons and polyhedra(geometry), permutation groups(algebra), path in a graph (topology), counting and estimation (combinatorics), and motion and forces(Mechanics). In this pilot project virtual reality technology is investigated as a tool in developing multi- modal (visual, tactile, and auditory) learning experiences for primarily low-verbal learners. Two starter VR environments will be developed and tested over the next year. The goal of the project is to begin to understand the non-verbal acquisition and use of abstract mathematical, physical, and algorithmic concepts as demonstrated through motoric responses.