ERIC_NO:
ED299133
TITLE:
Treating Mathematics as an Ill-Structured Discipline.
AUTHOR:
Resnick, Lauren B.
PUBLICATION_DATE:
1988
ABSTRACT:
Mathematics is generally regarded as a well-structured discipline by educators and cognitive scientists. This leads to the analysis of the
suggestion that practitioners begin investigating possibilities for teaching
mathematics as if it were an ill-structured discipline, with more than
one interpretation for mathematical statements. The paper is organized
into three main headings: "The Nature of Meaning Construction for
Mathematical Language"; "Socializing Mathematics Learning"; and
"Collaborative Problem Solving," with research findings incorporated in
the discussion of each topic. Issues for further investigation are then
identified, including: (1) natural language and mathematical language;
(2) social engineering; (3) integrating strategy and content in problem
solving; (4) contextualizing problem solving; (5) scaffolding supports
for problem solving; and (6) socializing problem solving. (MNS)
MAJOR_DESCRIPTORS:
Elementary School Mathematics; Mathematics Instruction; Problem Solving; Social Influences;
MINOR DESCRIPTORS:
Cognitive Structures; Educational Research; Elementary Education;
IDENTIFIERS:
Mathematics Education Research; *Meaningful Instruction
PUBLICATION_TYPE:
143