Examining Mathematical Task and Pedagogical Usability of Web Contents Authored by Prospective Mathematics Teachers

Abstract

The study was designed to engage prospective mathematics teachers in creating web learning modules. The aim was to examine the mathematical task and perceived pedagogical usability of the modules for mathematics instructions in Ghana. The study took place at University of Education, Winneba. Classes of 172 prospective mathematics teachers working in design groups were involved in the study. Data were collected using Mathematical Task Usability Scale and Pedagogical Usability Rubrics. The result indicated 77.8% of the task contents examined contained worthwhile mathematical tasks. Descriptive analysis of data reflected three distinct categories of perceived pedagogical usability. Approximately 6%, 58% and 36% of the modules contained low, moderate and high pedagogical usability attributes. The study concluded that majority of the modules developed by the prospective teachers have considerable instructional value. Implications for involvement of prospective mathematics teachers in authoring web resources were discussed against the backdrop of policy initiatives for integrating emerging technologies.