• Journal of Educational Research in Mathematics
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• v.24 no.4
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• pp.607-622
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• 2014

The purpose of this paper is that it analyzes the historical development of the concept of trigonometric functions and discuss some didactical implications. The results of the study are as follows. First, the concept of trigonometric functions is developed from line segments measuring ratios to numbers representing the ratios. Geometry, arithmetic, algebra and analysis has been integrated in this process. Secondly, as a result of developing from practical calculation to theoretical function, periodicity is formalized, but 'trigonometry' is overlooked. Third, it must be taught trigonometry relationally and structurally by the principle of similarity. Fourth, the conceptual generalization of trigonometric functions must be recognized as epistemological obstacle, and it should be improved to emphasize the integration revealed in history. The results of these studies provide some useful suggestions to teaching and learning of trigonometry.