Autonomous use of a computer algebra system for learning linear algebra

Abstract

A Computer Algebra System (CAS) can be defined as mathematical software with numerical, graphic and symbolic capacities. Many studies have addressed the teaching of mathematics in a CAS environment. This paper describes a teaching experience carried out in a linear algebra course, for engineering students, with methodologies adapted to the European Higher Education Area. Generic competences such as self-learning, team work or use of technology have been enhanced through autonomous work of students, who had worked in small groups (2-3 students) using a CAS for solving proposal exercises. The experience was completed with a competition which was announced and promoted between the students with the best grades. They developed a project related to a real problem in science or engineering, where orthogonal transformations are used for modelling and solving the problem. A brief summary of the winner project is included in the paper. The experiment proves that technology provides the students with material for enhancing the apprenticeship and improving the motivation.