Levels of Understanding of Trigonometric Functions (Sine, Cosine, Tangent) by Mathematics Students at Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan

This study aims at investigating levels of geometric thinking with regards to trigonometric functions by mathematics students at Al-Zaytoonah University  of Jordan. The sample of study consisted of 175 math students at Al-Zaytoonah University from the four undergraduate levels of study. For the purpose of the study a test was constructed dealing with the three trigonometric functions (sine, cosine and tan). This study has been formulated to measure levels of trigonometric understanding as described by Van Hiele:
The results of the study have shown that there is a statistically significant difference in the performance of student-teachers, depending on different understanding of trigonometric functions. Thus the results show that the student performance regarding (sin) was superior to (cosine and tan). The results of the study also showed there are statistically significant differences related to year of study, giving fourth year students an advantage over the other three years, and giving third year students an advantage over the first year and second year students. Finally the results of overall performance favored lower level geometric thinking as opposed to higher level thinking. The study has recommended taking into consideration geometric understanding and not limiting itself to Algebraic understanding. It also recommended making use of Van Hale theory of developing student learning of geometric concepts at the school and university levels. Finally, the study has recommended allocating a larger role to faculties of education in preparing math teachers, and not limiting this function to science schools, as is the case now.