Algebra Textbooks and Teachers Methods:
Journal Title: INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN EDUCATION METHODOLOGY - Year 2013, Vol 4, Issue 1
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to examine the methods used in algebra textbooks and by secondary school algebra teachers to illustrate simplifying rational expressions, since teachers report that many students fail to develop accurate facility with this topic. A sample of 10 algebra textbooks was examined, 33 teachers were surveyed, and 6 teachers were interviewed. The results reveal that the vast majority of textbooks and teachers in the sample used a procedurally focused method rather than a conceptually focused method. Teachers gravitated toward the quick coverage offered by a procedural method showing students exactly what to do. Moreover, they even knew the possible disadvantages of using such a procedural method and the advantages offered by a conceptual method which offered a clearer explanation of the reasons behind the process. Despite the fact that teachers reported that rational expression simplification was a significant challenge for students to learn, the advantages offered by a conceptual method with the prospect of improved student knowledge was unheeded by most. Interviews with experienced algebra teachers revealed low expectations for student learning which may have a negative impact on student performance. A teaching strategy is suggested, based on the results of this paper and prior research, to include both procedural and conceptual methods for the simplification of rational expressions to enhance student success.
Authors and Affiliations
Robert F Cunningham, Elizabeth Yacone
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP654689
- DOI 10.24297/ijrem.v4i1.3937
- Views 111
- Downloads 0
Comparative Study of performance of Actively Managed funds & Index Funds in India
index fund or index tracker is a collective investment scheme that aims to replicate the movements of an index of a specific financial market, or a set of rules of ownership that are held constant, regardless of mar...
Knowledge and Information Management: Effective System for Organizational Growth
Knowledge Management is necessary in organizations to enhance competitive advantage and decision making. Through Knowledge Management, we can share, develop and apply this knowledge for organizational growth. The purpose...
Transformative Learning Theory in Higher Education: Perspective Transformation for Students of a Department of Education in Greece
The following article explores the perspective transformation in Greek higher education using the Learning Activities Survey (LAS) questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. More specifically, the research occurred in...
Devellopement motivational attitudes of teachers to integrate ITC
This article examines the evolution of motivational attitudes of university teachers vis-vis the integration of information technology and communication (ICT). Motivational attitudes of teachers could be enhanced by the...
FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT (FDI) IN RETAIL IN INDIA: RAISON DETRE OF GROWTH
According to the Investment Commission of India, the retail sector is expected to grow almost three times its current levels to $660 billion by 2015. Investments are sought by Indian Retailers also to get necessary push...