Transforming learning with computers: Calculus for kids

The Calculus for Kids project was deliberately designed to use computers in thetransformation of curriculum. The intervention used multi-media learning materials toassist teachers and Year 6 (aged 11–12 years) students understand the principles ofintegral calculus. They used Maple mathematics software to solve real-world problemsusing these principles and by employing conventional mathematics notation on theirindividual computers. Between June 2010 and April 2016, it was implemented in 23classes at 19 schools involving 434 students. Two methods were used to calculate effectsizes of 22.19 (pre-test/post-test Cohen’s d) and 1.17 (age-maturation). Positive gainswere also found in students’ attitudes, particularly in Technology confidence. Thisarticle discusses methods for calculating effect sizes for transformational educationwith computers and recommends further research in the field