Understanding Two-Point Tangent-Curve Contact using JavaScript

Abstract

This participatory action research (PAR) study investigated the design and implementation of JavaScript integrated Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) to enhance students’ conceptual understanding of "tangent-curve contact”. The study is conducted at Tribhuvan University in a course "Differential Geometry” during May–Sept 2024. The participants of this study were thirteen students, and the study followed four iterative cycles: 2D Javascript visualization of tangent contact, Javascript visualization of osculating circle, 3D JavaScript visualization, and Moodle based quiz as assessment. The study found that JavaScript visualization helped students in building a deeper understanding of the concept of tangent-curve contact.

The findings highlight the pedagogical value of interactive visualizations within VLE and provide insights for technology integration in higher education, to implement evidence-based practices.