Enhancing complex number pedagogy through visualisation and embodiedness using interactive software Article

Madaparambu Rajan, N, Chari, D. (2026). Enhancing complex number pedagogy through visualisation and embodiedness using interactive software . INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MATHEMATICAL EDUCATION IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, 10.1080/0020739X.2026.2712301

cited authors

  • Madaparambu Rajan, N; Chari, D

authors

abstract

  • Representation of complex numbers and their arithmetic operations is one of the important mathematical competencies in many pre-university science and engineering curricula globally. The topic of complex numbers is fundamental to higher mathematics and is pedagogically challenging, particularly because of the need for simultaneous algebraic manipulation and geometric interpretations. To conceptualise complex number arithmetic through embodied interactions, this paper covers the design of Touchy Feely Complex Numbers (TFCN), a gesture-based, touch-enabled online learning environment. The system allows users to geometrically perceive and handle complex numbers, providing intuitive representations of operations such as addition, multiplication and conjugation, made possible by utilising haptic affordances and multi-touch inputs. The interface design and user features are informed by an initial requirement study and were validated through a focus group discussion. It examined students’ perceptions about geometrical aspects of complex numbers, particularly of arithmetic operations, conducted with 94 Indian engineering/mathematics/physics undergraduate students. TFCN can afford to transform the abstract mathematical ideas into interactive, manipulable experiences through embodied, tactile interfaces.

publication date

  • January 1, 2026

published in

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)