Abstract—Mathematics is a challenging subject to many American students at all levels, from K12 to college. In this article, we first address the issues encountered in the traditional classroom and explore the approaches to ease the problems. Then, we present a 3D-game-like math teaching and learning system—VMathLab which was developed as a supplemental tool to enhance students’ mathematics learning. VMathLab consists of a number of learning modules covering various mathematics topics, including college algebra, trigonometry, and calculus I. Each module is an individual virtual reality environment where students can follow tutorials and solve mathematics problems while playing 3D games. As an on-line system, VMathLab enables students to collaborate in team work and learn from each other. Moreover, the system can record students’ performance and generate statistical data for instructors to do analysis. Experimental results and student surveys through pilot teaching show that the system is effective.
Index Terms—College algebra, calculus I, gaming, learning modules. trigonometry, virtual reality
The authors are with the Department of Computer Science Prairie View Aand M University, Prairie View, Texas, U.S.A (e-mail: {yoyang, lilin,kibellam}@pvamu.edu).
Cite: Yonggao Yang, Lin Li, and Kiranmai Bellam, "VMathLab, a 3D-Game-Like System for College Math Learning Enhancement," International Journal of Computer Theory and Engineering vol. 4, no. 5, pp. 679-684 , 2012.
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