ERIC Number: EJ1396065
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2023-Nov
Pages: 19
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0958-5176
EISSN: EISSN-1469-3704
Problem Solving in the Mathematics Curriculum: From Domain-General Strategies to Domain-Specific Tactics
Curriculum Journal, v34 n4 p594-612 Nov 2023
Problem solving is widely regarded as a fundamental feature within the school mathematics curriculum. However, there is considerable disagreement over what exactly problem solving is, and if and how it can be taught. In this article, I define problems as non-routine tasks and propose the explicit teaching of domain-specific problem-solving tactics that are applicable over narrow ranges of mathematical content. This is in contrast to the widespread practice of attempting to teach domain-general strategies that are supposedly applicable across diverse content areas. The proposed approach here systematically introduces students to a well-defined set of high-leverage content-specific tactics, presented in a purposeful order and taught explicitly through the use of carefully chosen problems which those tactics dramatically unlock. I argue that this sequenced approach to teaching problem-solving addresses concerns widely reported about the apparent unteachability of domain-general problem-solving strategies and has the potential to enable all students to benefit from a powerful problem-solving mathematics curriculum.
Descriptors: Problem Solving, Mathematics Curriculum, Definitions, Learning Strategies, Mathematics Instruction, Sequential Approach
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2191/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A