| Abstract [eng] |
The use of information technology in education is influenced by ongoing changes. The creation of distance learning courses is becoming an increasingly popular way to ensure learning and adaptability in ever-changing conditions. The popularity of these courses remains high due to the factors such as accessibility, personalized training, technological advancements, the desire for continuous improvement, and global pandemics, etc. In Lithuania, significant losses in mathematical knowledge are observed following the renewal of General Mathematics Programs. To address this issue, the goal of this study is to develop an open interactive distance learning course aimed at deepening students' mathematical knowledge and bridging the knowledge gaps which emerged during the transition periods of the updated mathematics program in the first (ninth) grade of a gymnasium. To achieve this goal, the study initially analyzed the characteristics of mathematical education and the significance of the digital learning environment in education. Considering the variety of the existing virtual mathematics teaching/learning tools and the opportunities they provide, a study of the need for a new learning course was conducted. After establishing the necessity for such a course, the open-source content management system WordPress was selected for designing and implementing an interactive distance learning course in mathematics. The course has been implemented, tested, and is in use at a gymnasium to help students address gaps in their mathematics knowledge resulting from the updated teaching program. The study on the course's suitability was conducted, confirming that the users (students) positively evaluated its interactive content. The course was found to foster interest in mathematics, enhance motivation and increase engagement among students. |
