Augmented Reality and Matlab® for Visuospatial Competence Development

During the learning process of multivariable calculus, the spatial perception of 3D surfaces represents a major challenge for the students. Since it requires the ability to sketch the graph in a 3D system, a handmade sketch can be confusing and lead to misinterpretations of other concepts. In the specific case of triple integration, the task of setting the limits of a solid requires the combination of a good visuospatial competency plus a correct management of symbolic language of functions. Nowadays, one of the most relevant objectives for using mathematical visualization programs and/or technologies is to improve the spatial perception of 3D surfaces. In this work, a comparison between the use of tailor-made Augmented Reality software and Matlab® for visuospatial skills development in multivariable calculus course, is presented.