Writing in groups as a tool for non-routine problem solving in first year university mathematics

Article

Taylor, Janet A. and McDonald, Christine. 2007. "Writing in groups as a tool for non-routine problem solving in first year university mathematics." International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology. 38 (5), pp. 639-655. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207390701359396
Article Title

Writing in groups as a tool for non-routine problem solving in first year university mathematics

ERA Journal ID20498
Article CategoryArticle
AuthorsTaylor, Janet A. (Author) and McDonald, Christine (Author)
Journal TitleInternational Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology
Journal Citation38 (5), pp. 639-655
Number of Pages17
Year2007
Place of PublicationLondon, United Kingdom
ISSN0020-739X
1464-5211
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1080/00207390701359396
Abstract

Development of mathematical problem solving skills is an age old problem in mathematics. This paper details the design of a component of a first year university mathematics course in which group work and mathematical
communication skills, especially writing skills, are used as a tool to develop non-routine problem solving skills. In this design Polya’s problem solving framework and a writing heuristic are used synergistically with group work to develop the mathematical skills and enhance the mathematical communication skills of novice students. Students’ perceptions and performance indicate that this
strategy has been a success and has facilitated the development of some metacognitive behaviours in the students.

Keywordsmathematics; problem solving; writing; first year university
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020390109. Mathematics and numeracy curriculum and pedagogy
520499. Cognitive and computational psychology not elsewhere classified
390409. Learning sciences
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Byline AffiliationsLearning and Teaching Support Unit
Department of Mathematics and Computing
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