Learning Functions Through Vending Machines
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Authors
Callahan, James Austin
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Publisher
East Carolina University
Abstract
Given the prevalence of function concepts in high school math classes, students need to
develop a deep conceptual understanding of the topic. Technology tasks have become a frequent
tool used in the high school classroom to teach functions. Technology is thought to enhance
students' understanding of functions and foster a deeper understanding. The Vending Machine
Task, through GeoGebra, provides students with various virtual vending machines to make
selections and determine if each machine is a function or not. In this study, I have explored the
effectiveness of technology centered tasks, such as the Vending Machine Task, and studied the
strategies and academic language used while completing the task. My findings will show that
the Vending Machine Task, and other technology tasks, expand students’ thinking of functions
and help build deeper conceptual understanding.