The effect of using dynamic geometry software geogebra for teaching of "Circle and Disc" on the 7th grade students' achievement, attitudes towards geometry and retention level in learning

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of using dynamic geometry software GeoGebra for teaching "Circle and Disc" on 7th grade students' achievement, attitudes towards geometry and retention level in learning. This study was conducted with a quasi-experimental method used a pre-test and a post-test with a control group. This experimental study was conducted in 2015-2016 academic year with 62 seventh grade students in total (30 for experimental group, 32 for control group) in Isparta. While teaching in the experimental group was carried out with computer-assisted instruction materials supported GeoGebra software, the teaching in the control group was conducted with the current curriculum as a routine. In this study, data were collected with "Geometry Achievement Test", "Geometry Attitude Scale", "Survey about the GeoGebra Supported Learning Environment" and classroom observations. The achievement test and attitude scale were implemented to groups as a pre-test and post-test before and after the experiment. The achievement test was also implemented as a retention test two months after the post-test. Quantitative data were analyzed with SPSS-17.0 packet program using t-test and ANCOVA. Qualitative data were analyzed with content analysis method. The results of the study determined that computer-based instruction with GeoGebra in experimental group had more significant effect on students' achievement, attitudes and retention of learning than in control group. It was also determined that learning environment supported with GeoGebra software made the lesson more interesting and fun, gave students the opportunity to visualize geometric shapes and to draw and explore them easier, and to facilitate the conceptual learning of students.