Rediscovering the joy and essence of problem-solving in mathematics: the teacher education perspective

Proceedings of The 4th Global Conference on Education and Teaching

Year: 2023

DOI:

[PDF]

Rediscovering the joy and essence of problem-solving in mathematics: the teacher education perspective

Margo Kondratieva

ABSTRACT: 

In this paper we analyse diaries of a group of teachers enrolled in a graduate course focusing on the development of mathematical thinking. Participants were engaged in various activities including individual and group problem solving as well as the study of research-based literature regarding the topic. All teachers under consideration reported having positive encounters with mathematical problem-solving in the past. However, based on teachers’ testimonies, their past experience was not sufficient for confident implementation of the problem-solving approach in teaching of their classes.  Our case demonstrates that prior to the course teachers were not aware of many ideas fundamental for the success of the problem-solving process, specifically: (1) the usefulness of proper documentation of the problem-solving process; (2) the roles of review, explanation and reflection on one’s own solution; (3) the ways to approach the stuck situation; (4) the importance of continuous thinking about a challenging question; (5) the effects of the amount and kinds of help provided to students;  and, (6) the value of discussing problems in groups. We conclude that dissemination of research recommendations regarding mathematical problem-solving intertwined with actual problem-solving activities remains an important and desirable ingredient in teachers’ education and professional development.

keywords: problem-solving, mathematics, teacher education