Advanced Numerical-Algebraic Thinking: Constructing the Concept of Covariation as a Prelude to the Concept of Function

Autor/inn/en	Hitt, Fernando; Morasse, Christian
Titel	Advanced Numerical-Algebraic Thinking: Constructing the Concept of Covariation as a Prelude to the Concept of Function
Quelle	In: Electronic Journal of Research in Educational Psychology, 7 (2009) 1, S.243-260 (18 Seiten) PDF als Volltext Verfügbarkeit
Sprache	englisch
Dokumenttyp	gedruckt; online; Zeitschriftenaufsatz
ISSN	1696-2095
Schlagwörter	Manipulative Materials; Grade 9; Mathematical Concepts; Methods; Algebra; Mathematics Instruction; Students; Thinking Skills; Computation; Elementary Secondary Education; Student Attitudes; Research; Foreign Countries; Mathematics Activities; Canada + Suchen Sie Ihr Suchwort? Hilfsmittel; School year 09; 9. Schuljahr; Schuljahr 09; Method; Methode; Mathematics lessons; Mathematikunterricht; Student; Schüler; Schülerin; Studentin; Denkfähigkeit; Schülerverhalten; Forschung; Ausland; Kanada
Abstract	Introduction: In this document we stress the importance of developing in children a structure for advanced numerical-algebraic thinking that can provide an element of control when solving mathematical situations. We analyze pupils' conceptions that induce errors in algebra due to a lack of control in connection with their numerical thinking. We offer a detailed critique of a research group who promote the movement of introducing algebra in primary school ("Early Algebra"). Method: In this collaborative research, we show how to promote advanced numerical-algebraic thinking through experimentation with certain activities (problem situations) in two groups of secondary students (grade 9), with 24 and 36 students, respectively. We use a specific methodology for collaborative learning, scientific debate and self-reflection (ACODESA methodology). Results: The pupils in this study constructed covariational reasoning as a prelude to the function concept. They also developed control elements that helped them in the process of solving problem situations. Discussion: Numerical reasoning is essential to giving meaning to the syntactic processes that, if manipulated or conceived of incorrectly, can lead to an error in a given situation. Advanced numerical-algebraic thinking helps us develop sensitivity to contradiction, enabling us to detect error. We believe that working with manipulative materials and producing functional representations that can evolve into institutional ones, and using collaborative learning with scientific debate and self-reflective reasoning (ACODESA methodology), can help pupils to more easily retain their mathematical concepts over time. (Contains 3 figures.) (As Provided).
Anmerkungen	University of Almeria, Education & Psychology I+D+i. Faculty of Psychology Department of Educational and Developmental Psychology, Carretera de Sacramento s/n, 04120 LaCanada de San Urbano, Almeria, Spain. Tel: +34-950-015354; Fax: +34-950-015083; Web site: http://www.investigacion-psicopedagogica.org/revista/new/english/index.php
Erfasst von	ERIC (Education Resources Information Center), Washington, DC
Update	2017/4/10