Computer Supported Cooperative Learning Environment for Multivariable Calculus

计算机实验室项目正被引入密歇根大学基础多变量微积分课程的所有部分(每年1500-1700名学生)。计算机正被用作发现工具。这些项目的主要特点是：促进主动学习和动手体验，通过计算机图形学实现可视化，逐步引入枫叶语法，促进概念理解、批判性思维和定量推理。该项目包括几项活动：开发一个实验室项目库(长期：每个项目最终都是一个应用于科学、经济学或工程学的问题)；在计算机实验室环境中开发和实施合作学习技术；开发和实施适合于大课堂反馈技术的激励材料，在每个教室使用连接到LCD平板的工作站；编写助教和教师手册和录像带，以及创建强化助教和教员培训方案。学生的构成是非常多样化的。这些材料是在考虑到一些学生以前没有计算机经验的情况下编写的。合作团体的多样性将加强他们的力量。

Computer laboratory projects are being introduced in all sections of the basic multivariable calculus course at the University of Michigan (1500-1700 students per year). The computer is being used as a discovery tool. The projects' main features are: promotion of active learning and hands-on experience, visualization through computer graphics, gradually introduced Maple syntax, furtherance of conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and quantitative reasoning. Several activities are included in the project: to develop a library of laboratory projects (long term: each project is to culminate with a problem applied to science, economics or engineering); to develop and implement cooperative learning techniques in the computer laboratory environment; to develop and implement motivational material suitable for feedback techniques in large lecture classes, using a workstation in every classroom connected to an LCD plate; to write TA and instructor manuals and videotapes, and to create an intensive TA and Faculty training program. The composition of the student body is very diverse. The materials are being written with the consideration that some students have no prior computer experience. Diversity in the cooperative groups will strengthen them.