A Classification of Mathematical Modeling Problems of Prospective Mathematics Teachers

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to classify the mathematical modelling problems produced by pre-service mathematics teachers in terms of the number of variables and to determine the mathematical modelling skills and mathematical skills used in solving the problems in each class. The current study is a qualitative research and the data was analyzed using descriptive analysis. The data of the study was obtained from the mathematical modelling problem written by 59 senior mathematics teachers. They were given a 1-week period to write the problems and solutions. The participants took mathematical modelling course for one semester period prior to the research. The problems are the original problems that the participants themselves produced. The mathematical modelling problems produced are categorically as follows: “Which option is more economical” problems, “Profit-making” problems, “Future prediction” problems and “Relationship between two quantities” problems. The mathematical modelling skills used are as follows: to be able to collect appropriate data, organize the data, write dependent and independent variables, write fixed values, visualize the real situation mathematically or geometrically, use mathematical concepts. The mathematical skills used are generally; to be able to do four operations with rational numbers, draw distribution and column graph, write algebraic expression, do arithmetic operation in algebraic rational expressions, write/solve equation and inequality in 1 or 2 variables, write an appropriate mathematical function explaining the data related to the data, solve 1st degree equations in 1 variable, establish proportion, use trigonometric ratios in right triangle, use basic geometry information, draw and interpret a 1st degree inequality in 2 variables.