ChatGPT’s Analysis on MyLab Math

Here’s a SAMR analysis for Pearson MyLab Math, an online platform used for teaching and learning mathematics:

Substitution:

At the Substitution level, MyLab Math simply replaces traditional paper-based math work with digital equivalents. For example, students complete math exercises and quizzes on the platform instead of on paper. The core activity—solving math problems—remains the same, but the medium shifts from pen-and-paper to a digital interface. There’s no functional improvement at this level beyond convenience.

• Example: Students use MyLab Math to complete homework assignments that they would otherwise do on a physical worksheet.

Comments: ChatGPT tells me that while paper-based work is transformed into digital form, the core process of solving math problems remains the same. According to my experience, students still have to do their calculation steps on paper or their own tablets. Most of the time, MyLab Math only allows a single input for the final result.

Augmentation:

At the Augmentation level, MyLab Math enhances the functionality of traditional math exercises by providing immediate feedback and grading. While the basic task remains the same (solving math problems), the platform offers real-time corrections and allows for multiple attempts, which is an enhancement over manual grading.

• Example: Students receive instant feedback on whether their answers are correct or incorrect and can learn from their mistakes more quickly than they would with traditional methods.

Comments: MyLab Math does provide immediate feedback and grading, but not in a flexible way. For example, there are different notations in mathematics that represent the same result, but it only accepts one form. Using a different form can result in a zero for the question. It also doesn’t like typos, which in human grading might only cause you in a small percentage deduction.

Modification:

At the Modification level, MyLab Math transforms how students engage with the content. The platform includes interactive tools, such as step-by-step guided solutions and video tutorials, which modify the learning process by enabling deeper understanding. Teachers can also customize assignments, adding more varied types of assessments than what is possible on paper.

• Example: A student struggling with a math problem can click on an “Help Me Solve This” feature, where they are guided through the problem step-by-step. Teachers can integrate videos or supplemental resources directly into the assignment.

Comments: “Help Me Solve This” is not available for every question. It only provides help for one question of the same type. Sometimes the method it teaches is different from the teacher’s method, which can make the question more confusing.

Redefinition:

At the Redefinition level, MyLab Math enables entirely new tasks that were previously impossible without technology. The platform supports large-scale analytics that allow instructors to track student progress over time, identifying individual strengths and weaknesses. Collaborative and adaptive learning features can also be integrated, where assignments dynamically adjust based on a student’s performance, personalizing the learning experience in ways that wouldn’t be feasible in a traditional classroom.

• Example: The platform can automatically adjust the difficulty of problems based on a student’s performance, providing a personalized learning experience that continually challenges the student without overwhelming them. Teachers can also monitor collective class progress and identify areas where students are commonly struggling, allowing for real-time adjustments to instruction.

Comments: I have personally never experienced the adaptive learning feature. The system simply changes the variables for each question.

In summary, Pearson MyLab Math can evolve from a digital worksheet substitute at the substitution level to a fully personalized and interactive learning experience at the redefinition level.

Overall, ChatGPT provides a comprehensive analysis of Pearson MyLab Math that aligns well with the SAMR model. However, it is missing some limitations. In addition to the cons I mentioned from my own experience, it doesn’t address accessibility issues, such as some students may not having reliable internet access, and the platform’s high cost. Both teachers and students may encounter challenges when first using the platform, and training tutorials might be necessary to ensure effective use.