MERLOT: Resource Evaluation

Resource:  Eye Opener Series


The link above directs to a page titled, Interactive Mathematics Miscellany and Puzzles.  The introduction and link to the Manifesto provide perspective and a context regarding the intended purposes of the website.  In short, the site seeks to challenge negative perceptions and perspectives pertaining to mathematics using Java applets to prompt discovery and positive experiences with mathematical content.  The author notes in the Manifesto linked above, "I hope to create a resource that would help learn, if not math itself, then, at least, ways to appreciate its beauty."

The following presents an evaluation of the resource with regard to quality of content, potential effectiveness as a teaching-learning tool, and ease of use

Quality of Content

Under the introduction, the contributor organized mathematical  content into categories by either subject or type of resource.  Investigating the "Arithmetic" section, several of the Java applets pertained to grade level content expectations for sixth grade mathematics outlined by the Michigan Department of Education.  Topics in this section related to sixth grade mathematical content requirements and present both visual representations and opportunities to practice skills.


Eye Opener Series presents educationally significant concepts for mathematics.  As noted above, mathematical ideas represented and demonstrated using Java applets related to grade level content expectations.  Also, several of the "Arithmetic" applets introduce mathematical ideas and skills prevalent in many areas of mathematics.  For example, one applet investigates common multiples.  Common multiples reappear with respect to fractions.  More specifically with regard to comparing fractions and common denominators.  Much of the content presented structures foundations for other areas of mathematics.


Personal Effectiveness as a Teaching-Learning Tool

Speaking previously of several "Arithmetic" applets, the following will focus on one particular applet:  Common Multiples and the Least Common Multiple.  After investigating the applet, the content could be situated in the classroom as both a demonstration of an objective as well as a tool for students to manipulate in order to practice finding common multiples.  Upon completion of the applet, students should be able to define and identify both common multiples and least common multiple.  Additionally, students should be able to apply both common multiples and the least common multiple to determine common denominators of fractions.  The target learner benefits and engages from visual representations and hands-on manipulation.  Additionally, the target learner possesses previous knowledge of integers and multiplication.


The Java applet improves the presentation of common multiples by visually showing how multiples change in relationship to each other.  Also, different colored dots help the learner quickly distinguish which numbers are multiples and which are common multiples.  The applet also allows students to explore common multiples with various numbers.  From a teaching standpoint, the applet could be used to provide students with a variety of examples and have students make observations to define common multiples and least common multiple.  Common Multiples and Least Common Multiple readily supports mathematical standards; educators can frame the applet in different ways depending on the content objective addressed.  The lesson presents specific teaching-learning goals; however, the java applet can be used creatively or as a tool for students to practice identifying common multiples and determining the least common multiple.  Educators could design assignments for students to complete using the applet specific to a particular context or the context could be general allowing students choice.


Ease of Use

As noted previously, the Java applet itself provides different colors encouraging the distinction between multiple and common multiple.  The applet itself is easy to manipulate; although, the applet on the webpage is limited in the original number to find multiples of.  Numbers greater than forty-four disappear off the number line pictured.   The applet includes directions and an explanation above allowing users to manipulate easily.  The Java applet does not provide feedback to users outside of the identified multiples and common multiples.  The applet requires little instruction to manipulate and use.  Students may not be used to seeing multiples situated above and below a number line; however, the applet does provide opportunity for students to manipulate and explore multiples in a visual way.