Use conditions of computer in Mathematics classes of secondary education in Portugal

Abstract

This study has two main aims: to characterize the type of use that Mathematics teachers of the portuguese secondary education do of the computer in the classroom and to identify the conditions that they point as relevant for its use. The study followed a mixed approach with strong quantitative perspective according to a descriptive, cross-sectional plan. Data were collected through an online questionnaire applied to secondary education Mathematics teachers in the school year 2015/2016 from Portuguese Schools. The results, referring to the 119 teachers who collaborated in the study, show that the computer is not yet an integrated tool in the teaching of Mathematics in Portugal. The teachers identified as necessary conditions for the improvement of computer use a variety of aspects related to the logistics of technology but also to curricular and pedagogical aspects, their computer skills, training and motivation.