He also used the ISETL mathematics programming software for activities in the computer laboratory and
cooperative group learning for discussion in the classroom. His research aim was
to investigate the differences between students who attended the class using the
ACE teaching cycle approach (experimental group) and students who attended the
class using a traditional approach (control group) in their ability to prove theorems
and students’ attitude in learning abstract algebra. The researcher obtained data
from a mathematics test and an attitudes questionnaire at the end of his study to
investigate the differences, if any. The result of his research was that the students
who attended the class based on the ACE teaching cycle approach were able to
prove theorems significantly better than students from the traditional class.
Meanwhile, his study on students’ attitudes revealed that students who attended
the class using the ACE teaching cycle approach had more positive attitudes
towards the teaching and learning process of abstract algebra than students who
attended the traditional class (Arnawa, 2006). In his study, Arnawa used 8 aspects
(scales) to measure students attitudes namely, confidence (A), anxiety (B),
attitude on the usefulness of abstract algebra (C), attitude for success (D),
encouragement for success (E), perception on lecturer support (F), perception on
learning in small groups (G), and perceptions about the lecturer’s and students’
role in the teaching and learning process (H). Table 2.1 below presents the result
of mean value of the eight scales of the attitude questionnaire on the experimental
group and control group.
Table 2.1: Mean Value of Attitude Scales on Experimental Group and Control
Group of Arnawa’s Study (N = 180)
Group
Means of of Attitude Scale Average
A B C D E F G H Mean
Experiment 3.98 3.64 3.73 3.76 3.81 3.47 4.49 3.72 3.83
Traditional 3.52 3.46 3.35 3.49 3.31 3.32 3.96 3.22 3.41
Source: Arnawa (2006).
In implementing the ACE teaching cycle, researchers of the three studies used
computer technology in teaching and learning mathematics. Students were
encouraged to learn the contents to be discussed in the classroom using
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mathematics software. Through the use of the software, students were expected to
be able to construct their understanding.