Visualization of Multivariable Calculus: Learning Needs Analysis for Geo-Gebra-Assisted Teaching Material Development

Students often struggle to visualize multivariable functions, interpret partial derivatives, and apply extrema, yet systematic needs analyses for designing meaningful Multivariable Calculus learning environments remain limited. This study aims to identify students’ learning needs as a foundation for developing GeoGebra-assisted materials. Using a qualitative descriptive approach within the Gravemeijer and Cobb design research framework, data were collected through a needs-analysis questionnaire administered to eight purposively selected university students who had completed the course. Results show that six of the eight students experienced moderate to high levels of difficulty, especially in visualizing multivariable functions and understanding partial derivatives. Students also reported that videos and lecturer explanations were helpful, and all expressed readiness to use GeoGebra-based materials. The findings indicate the importance of designing structured learning environments that integrate dynamic visualizations. This study provides the groundwork for subsequent teaching experiment and retrospective analysis cycles in developing valid and generalizable instructional designs.
Keywords: Multivariable Calculus; Geogebra; Learning Needs; Learning Design; Design Research.