This site consists of a matrix calculator which may be used to perform various basic matrix operations, including finding the inverse, determinant, and reduced row echelon form.
Type of Material:
Simulation
Recommended Uses:
This resource can be used for individual study and in-class demonstration, and practice and review.
Technical Requirements:
Any Browser.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
The purpose of this site is to allow users to perform various matrix operations and basic calculations.
Target Student Population:
High School, College General Ed, College Lower Division
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
College Algebra, Linear Algebra
Basic matrix definitions
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
This is a simple matrix calculator which allows input of up to eight matrices where the user chooses the dimensions up to 6x6, and the entries. It will then perform a variety of standard matrix operations as approriate such as addition, multiplication, inverse determinant and trace. It provides a warning explanation when operations are inappropriate.
The home page describes the creator "Desmos" as a free teaching and learning platform that has a collection of math tools. Students and teachers may create optional accounts and there is a resource page.
Concerns:
This resource could be improved by including review materials (or links to review materials) or more detailed explanations of the operations performed.
This functions only as a calculator with no explanations or steps.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
This is a useful tool for individual study and review as well as in-class demonstration. It would be a great resource for students wanting to check their work on assignments.
It allows the student to create many practice and review problems in matrix operations and provides the answer.
Concerns:
Including accompanying materials or examples would make it easier for students to review and better understand how the calculations were made.
Does not provide any explanations or steps.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The calculator is visually appealing. While no directions are included, the layout is clear. The blue “New Matrix” button makes it easy to see how to get started. There are no distracting advertisements.
Simple and effective.
Concerns:
It might be helpful to include a brief explanation of how to enter a matrix in the calculator.
Creative Commons:
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