Utilising computer simulations to teach derivatives with p5.js and Google Colaboratory : A comparative study

Sammanfattning: Education is considered as one of the most crucial services of society, yet in recent years there has been a decline in understanding of mathematics among pupils. Therefore, this thesis explores how Python and Javascript code written using the web-based simulation frameworks of Jupyter/Google Colab and p5.js could be used to improve teaching of mathematics focusing on the topic of derivatives. This study compared these tools with respect to effects on perceived learning, motivation, and interactivity. To do this, simulations explaining the concept of derivatives were created using both tools. After the creation of the simulations and a related questionnaire, they were sent to student channels and personal contacts. 15 answers were received about the participants' experience of the simulations but personal observations from the authors while watching some participants using the simulations were also included in the results. The results give a preliminary indication that there seems to be a slight preference for p5.js in all measured aspects mainly due to the setup of the tools and the instruction text to Google Colab being difficult to understand. What this indicates is that first, there is an interest in simulations and that simulations could be used as a helpful tool to increase motivation and improve learning of mathematics, and second, that interactivity of the simulation affects learning and motivation positively.