Using spreadsheets in learning equations

Abstract

Spreadsheets as a very functional tool has been used in many studies to facilitate transition process from arithmetic to algebra. In this study, we describe middle-grade students' experiences about using spreadsheets in learning equations. For this purpose, ten 7th grade students who had been taken an elective mathematics course participated in a spreadsheet activity about exploring equations with two unknowns. As a result, working on the problem arithmetically with spreadsheets helped students to conceive the spreadsheet cells as variables and it facilitate the students' formulization of arithmetic generalisations.