Problem Solving and Generalization Through Modeling: A study on Elementary School Students
Authors
Sinan Olkun
Ankara Üniversitesi, Eğitim Bilimleri Fakültesi
Author
Özge Şahin
Ankara Üniversitesi, Eğitim Bilimleri Fakültesi
Author
Zeynep Akkurt
Hacettepe Üniversitesi, Eğitim Fakültesi
Author
Filiz Tuba Dikkartin
Ankara Üniversitesi, Eğitim Bilimleri Fakültesi
Author
Hande Gülbağcı
Balıkesir Üniversitesi, Necatibey Eğitim Fakültesi
Author
Keywords:
Non-routine word problems, generalization, modeling, problem solving.
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the modeling and generalizing processes of 3rd through 5th grade students while they are solving a non-routine additive word problem. The study utilized an experimental design with no control group. A total of 278 students from 7 different schools participated in the study. Students were asked a non routine word problem as a pretest. Then, they were given a semi structured worksheet based on modeling similar problems with small numbers. Finally, they were asked a non-routine problem similar to the one asked as the pretest. Results showed that the students had very low level of success on this type of problem. After the intervention, only the fifth graders made some improvement. Implications for mathematics teaching and learning are discussed.
