Background

This project was initiated to address the significant challenges faced by Brazilian high school students in understanding mathematical functions. Recognizing that the comprehension of functions is crucial for their mathematical development, the project utilized Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) to create interactive and engaging educational resources tailored to students' needs.

Problem

Many students struggle with the concept of functions due to foundational difficulties, such as understanding variables, algebraic expressions, and the ability to relate different representations of functions. These challenges hinder their ability to grasp essential mathematical principles necessary for success in higher education, particularly in the Exact Sciences.

Solution

The project implemented an AI Assistant, called FunBot, designed to provide personalized support to students based on their learning styles and difficulty levels. Additionally, lesson plans were created using AI for five dynamic 50-minute classes, covering key function concepts, including domain, range, zeros, and transformations. Complementing the lesson plans, various engaging learning materials were produced, such as a playful game for reviewing variables and algebraic expressions, a list of exercises on function composition and transformations, and a concise, dynamic slide presentation on injective, surjective, and bijective functions, as well as inverse functions called Funções Especiais: Explorando Injetoras, Sobrejetoras e Inversas.

Impact

The integration of GenAI in this project facilitated a more engaging and personalized learning experience, allowing students to overcome barriers in understanding functions. By promoting active participation and critical thinking, students developed a deeper comprehension of mathematical concepts, ultimately enhancing their confidence and preparedness for future studies in the Exact Sciences.

Explanatory video for the background story to the game mentioned as a learning material

Leveraging GenAI to Enhance Understanding of Mathematical Functions