Improving Students’ Conceptual Understanding and Problem-Solving Skills by Connecting Algebra to Their Lives Through Real-World Applications
Major
Educational Studies
Second Major
Mathematics
Submission Type
Poster
Area of Study or Work
Educational Studies
Faculty Advisor
Leah Nillas
Location
CNS Atrium
Start Date
4-13-2024 11:15 AM
End Date
4-13-2024 12:30 PM
Abstract
The purpose of this research synthesis is to analyze research findings involving how real-world applications are integrated in algebra classrooms to strengthen students’ conceptual understanding. According to Mills (2016), conceptual understanding is where students can grasp ideas and take what they learn in class and apply it across different domains. This study aims to synthesize findings from research conducted by teachers and other educators to examine the practices in relating students’ lives in mathematical classrooms using real world applications. The rationale for choosing peer-review articles was to support metacognitive thinking and enhance real-world math applications; to examine the use of algebra related activities/problems as a conduit for critical thinking. The landscape of algebra education is evolving, with a recognized need for innovative approaches to enhance students' engagement and understanding. Traditional teaching methods often fall short in providing real-world relevance to algebra concepts, prompting a critical examination of how educators can bridge this gap. The central research problem revolves around understanding the strategies employed by teachers to integrate real-world applications in algebra instruction and exploring the resulting impact on students' conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. By addressing the dual facets of the research question, namely the strategies employed by teachers and the ensuing effects on students' learning experiences, this research aspires to contribute meaningful insights to the realm of mathematics education. The research problem, rooted in the evolving landscape of algebra education, underscores the imperative of connecting mathematical concepts to real-world contexts. The objectives, structured around understanding teacher strategies and assessing the impact on students, guide the research toward a nuanced exploration of pedagogical practices and learning outcomes. This research lays the groundwork for a comprehensive exploration of the integration of real-world applications in teaching algebra concepts and its impact on students' conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.
Improving Students’ Conceptual Understanding and Problem-Solving Skills by Connecting Algebra to Their Lives Through Real-World Applications
CNS Atrium
The purpose of this research synthesis is to analyze research findings involving how real-world applications are integrated in algebra classrooms to strengthen students’ conceptual understanding. According to Mills (2016), conceptual understanding is where students can grasp ideas and take what they learn in class and apply it across different domains. This study aims to synthesize findings from research conducted by teachers and other educators to examine the practices in relating students’ lives in mathematical classrooms using real world applications. The rationale for choosing peer-review articles was to support metacognitive thinking and enhance real-world math applications; to examine the use of algebra related activities/problems as a conduit for critical thinking. The landscape of algebra education is evolving, with a recognized need for innovative approaches to enhance students' engagement and understanding. Traditional teaching methods often fall short in providing real-world relevance to algebra concepts, prompting a critical examination of how educators can bridge this gap. The central research problem revolves around understanding the strategies employed by teachers to integrate real-world applications in algebra instruction and exploring the resulting impact on students' conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills. By addressing the dual facets of the research question, namely the strategies employed by teachers and the ensuing effects on students' learning experiences, this research aspires to contribute meaningful insights to the realm of mathematics education. The research problem, rooted in the evolving landscape of algebra education, underscores the imperative of connecting mathematical concepts to real-world contexts. The objectives, structured around understanding teacher strategies and assessing the impact on students, guide the research toward a nuanced exploration of pedagogical practices and learning outcomes. This research lays the groundwork for a comprehensive exploration of the integration of real-world applications in teaching algebra concepts and its impact on students' conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.