ERIC Number: EJ1028318
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0020-739X
EISSN: N/A
Using Toulmin Analysis to Analyse an Instructor's Proof Presentation in Abstract Algebra
Fukawa-Connelly, Timothy
International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology, v45 n1 p75-88 2014
This paper provides a method for analysing undergraduate teaching of proof-based courses using Toulmin's model (1969) of argumentation. It presents a case study of one instructor's presentation of proofs. The analysis shows that the instructor presents different levels of detail in different proofs; thus, the students have an inconsistent set of written models for their work. Similarly, the analysis shows that the details the instructor says aloud differ from what she writes down. Although her verbal commentary provides additional detail and appears to have pedagogical value, for instance, by modelling thinking that supports proof writing, this value might be better realized if she were to change her teaching practices.
Descriptors: College Mathematics, Undergraduate Study, Case Studies, Mathematics Instruction, Validity, Models, Teaching Methods, Algebra, College Faculty, Observation, Video Technology, Mathematical Concepts, Equations (Mathematics), Verbal Communication
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A