This site contains a matrix calculator that allows the user to perform several manipulations to a (user entered) matrix. This includes evaluating rank, determinant, trace, eigenvalues and eigenvectors, etc.
Type of Material:
Simulation
Recommended Uses:
This resource can be used for individual study and in-class demonstration and can be used by the individual student to check their work and see solutions of Linear Algebra questions.
Technical Requirements:
Any browser that accepts JavaScript.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
The purpose of this site is to allow users to perform various matrix calculations.
It finds various matrix characteristics and transformations.
Target Student Population:
College Lower Division
Any student taking Linear Algebra.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
The basics of Linear Algebra.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
This tool performs all basic and some advanced matrix transformations including the rank, determinant, trace of a matrix. It also finds basic matrix algebraic expressions as well as eigenvalues and eigenvectors of a square matrix.
Concerns:
The site that contains the tool does not have any explanation of the concepts behind the matrix calculations nor does it have any links to explanations. It could be improved by including a link to review material.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
This can be used by Linear Algebra or Matrix Analysis students to check their work and see an answer that they do not know how to get. It can be used as a tool for self-guided study or activity. Instructors can also use this tool during an in-class demonstration.
Concerns:
Without accompanying materials, there is no way for students to get additional Linear Algebra information to help them understand how the calculations were made.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The layout is clear and the entries are easy to use with just simple checkboxes and fill in the blank. There is a Help button explaining how the matrices should be entered.
Creative Commons:
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