Interactive Computer Software As An Effective Tool For Blended Learning

The paper studies the matter related to the use of an interactive computer simulator in Mathematics course when using blended learning technology in the current university education. As an example, the authors describe the original computer software Integral Test 1.0, designed to practice the antiderivative skills and academic performance rating when studying the topic Function Integration of one real variable. A special feature of this software, which distinguishes it from standard diagnostic programs favourably, is that a student is not asked to choose the correct answer from several suggested options. He needs to enter the answer on his own in the field intended for this purpose. The antiderivative is typed from the keyboard as a string according to the customary rules, and the software visualizes the answer in the traditional form and verifies it. Using such a simulator allows one to actualize a component of the interactive mode of blended learning technology. Students have an opportunity to work out their computing skills without a teacher’s supervision. The authors present the results of an experiment that was conducted among first-year students majored in Engineering for two years. The experiment confirmed the effectiveness of using an interactive computer simulator in blended mathematics study. In particular, the quality of academic performance in the experimental group increased by 8.7%.