effect of curriculum specific computer-aided instruction on student achievement in college algebra, a comparative study

This study was designed to determine the effects of curriculum specific computer aided instruction on student achievement in a College Algebra course. Curriculum specific software is microcomputer software which provides both computerized instruction and practice for each topic in the accompanying textbook and is now available for many college mathematics texts. Using methods outlined by Diem (1982) in a previous study, College Algebra students were randomly assigned to one of four groups. Six hypotheses were formulated and tested by comparing both post-test scores and growth quotients for various appropriate groups. At the.05 level of significance the following hypotheses were rejected: There is no significant difference in achievement in learning mathematics between College Algebra students who study linear inequalities using curriculum specific microcomputer drill and practice with traditional lecture and College Algebra students who study linear inequalities using a traditional lecture-homework approach. There is no significant difference in achievement among those receiving curriculum specific microcomputer aided instruction as a result of students' score on the pretest, whether placed in the upper, middle, or lower third of the pretest scores. Implications of the study included the following: (1) The use of curriculum specific computerized drill and practice can significantly increase the mathematics achievement of those students receiving a traditional lecture. (2) There is a significant relationship between a student's pretest score and their level of success when using curriculum specific microcomputer aided instruction. Recommendations for further study included the following: (1) Replication of this experiment investigating different factors such as: (a) Differences related to age, (b) attitude toward computer aided instruction, (c) type of text and software, and (d) differences related to previous computing experience. (2) Research which compares various forms of curriculum specific drill and practice. (3) Development of computerized tutorials which significantly increase student achievement.