Influence of Utilization of Geogebra Software on Secondary School Students’ Performance in Euclidean Geometry, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

Abstract

Performance in mathematics in Euclidean geometry topics such as loci, 3Dand transformation has been poor. This study investigated the influence of utilization of GeoGebra software on students’ performance in Euclidean geometry. The study investigated the availability of GeoGebra software in Kenya secondary schools. The challenge faced by students during the application of GeoGebra software in Euclidean geometry was studied. The study sought to find out if student’s attitude in Euclidean geometry can be stimulated by use of GeoGebra software. The location of the study was Maara sub County, Tharaka Nithi County, target population was the secondary schools (49). The accessible population was form two students (2000 students). The sample size was 5 schools (10% of the total schools). Stratified sampling was used to determine the five sample schools from the 20 schools with computers for students. Simple random sampling was used to select students as either experimental or control group. The study was carried out through a quasi-experimental pre-test post-test research design. Data were collected using MAT and students’ questionnaires and analyzed using means scores, t-test and percentages. Data indicated that after the use of GeoGebra software in teaching and learning Euclidean geometry the experimental group had a higher mean score than the control group which implies that the application of GeoGebra software helps improve students’ performance. 77% of the students indicated that they enjoyed the lessons as they used GeoGebra software in the classroom; hence the use of GeoGebra software helps to stimulate student’s interest in Euclidean geometry. 65% of the students stated that after the use of GeoGebra software they could solve more problems in geometry compared to other times when they did not apply GeoGebra software, hence the application of GeoGebra software helps stimulate the students’ knowledge. The study recommends the use of GeoGebra software to improve students’ motivation, attitude and achievement in Euclidean geometry. The study also recommends to the KICD for evaluation of GeoGebra software as a teaching and learning tool in Kenya Secondary school.