Creative mathematical reasoning reinforced by retrieving practice - enhancing learning and memory

Background

Constructing the solution when the solution method is not known, means the student must make use of prior knowledge. In a previous development project, we have noticed the students often need support in recall and choose appropriate prior knowledge. Cognitive research has shown when retrieving of knowledge from long term memory is an active process, memory and learning are reinforced. That is called Retrieval practice and found superior to repetitive learning (for example read a book chapter several times). Parallelly, studies have shown learning by creative reasoning (constructing solutions and formulating arguments) entails students remembering better what they have learned compared to students learning from teachers’ explanations and practicing in textbooks. Together, that indicates learning by creative reasoning and retrieval practice might support each other. Based on that assumption, the project aims to develop a teaching design where students lern mathematics from combining creative reasoning with retrieval practice.

External project memebers: Carina Granberg, dr Umeå University, Denice D'Arcy, teacher, Lerbergsskolan.

Project goal

The aim of the project is to develop and investigate circumstances for learning mathematics in a teaching design building on problem-solving by reasoning

The project goal is to develop and investigate a replicable teaching design.

Project activities

The teaching design is developed iteratively in cycles where researchers and teachers design lessons guided by principles. The techers conduct the lessons and thereafter researchers and teachers evaluate and analyze content and outcome of the lessons. The goal for each cycle is to develop the principles guiding the design. Furthermore, the students mathematical knowledge will be tested regularly.