International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education (PME)

Proceedings of the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education · Volume 1

Instrumental Genesis in Linear Algebra: a Case Study of a Student with Visual Impairment

Valentina Bernabè

Università degli studi di Ferrara

49th Annual Conference of the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education, PME 2026Helsinki27 July 2026 - 1 August 2026pp. 171–178ISSN 2790-36482026Scopus conference code 336559
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Abstract

This research report examines instrument-mediated activity in linear algebra learning in a non-visual context. Using the instrumental approach, we analyse a task-based interview with a student with visual impairment solving matrix-related tasks. The analysis focuses on processes of instrumentation and instrumentalisation in accessing mathematical structure through sequential representations. Results show how digital artefacts are transformed into cognitive instruments supporting control and coherence of mathematical meaning. The study suggests that non-visual contexts pose explicit challenges for linear algebra that are often implicit in visually mediated learning.

Keywords

Visual impairmentinstrumental genesisinstrumentationinstrumentalisationlinear algebra

Recommended citation

Bernabè, V. (2026). Instrumental Genesis in Linear Algebra: a Case Study of a Student with Visual Impairment. In Krzywacki H., Hähkiöniemi M., Haataja E., Hannula M.S., Hästö P. (Eds.), Proceedings of the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education, Volume 1 (pp. 171–178). Psychology of Mathematics Education (PME). ISSN 2790-3648.

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