ERIC Number: ED489680
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2004-Jul
Pages: 8
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Solution--What Does It Mean? Helping Linear Algebra Students Develop the Concept While Improving Research Tools
DeVries, David; Arnon, Ilana
International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education, 28th, Bergen, Norway, July 14-18, 2004
Twelve linear algebra students were interviewed about the concept of a Solution of a System of Equations. The interviews were analyzed using APOS tools, in particular the ideas of Action, Process, Object and Schema, and Genetic Decomposition. The analysis of the interviews revealed several misconceptions of Solution. The analysis also revealed shortcomings of the questionnaire that was used in the interviews: It did not permit making a distinction between lack of knowledge and partial knowledge. Research tools were improved (questionnaire, GD, and suggestions for teaching materials) and prepared for the next cycle of research. [For complete proceedings, see ED489632.]
Descriptors: Research Tools, Misconceptions, Algebra, Problem Solving, Equations (Mathematics), Mathematics Education, Questionnaires, Cognitive Processes, College Students, College Mathematics, Research Methodology
International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education, 35 Aandwind Street, Kirstenhof, Cape Town, 7945, South Africa. Web site: http://igpme.org.
Publication Type: Reports - Research; Speeches/Meeting Papers; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A