Investigation of pre-service elementary mathematics teachers’ problem posing situations in dynamic geometry environment

Abstract

This study examined problem posing situations of pre-service elementary mathematics teachers in dynamic geometry environment by using problem posing strategies. The qualitative method of multiple case study was applied and geometric concepts that participants used for each type of problem posing are examined. Eight participants from 3rd grade pre-service mathematics teachers voluntarily participated in the study in 2015-2016 fall semester had previously received Computer Aided Mathematics course in the 2014-2015 spring semester. During six weeks’ data collection period, participants tried to pose new problems via dynamic geometry software by using given problem posing situations and their studies were recorded by screen saving program. The relationship between the problems that given to them and the concepts in the new problems were examined through screen recordings. Findings show new problems are established in parallel with the shape or problem statement in the problem posing situations given to them. Compared with other types of problem posing situations, it is seen the concepts are more diversified in the free problem posing. Participants develop their problem posing skills during the process so it is suggested these topics should be included in mathematics education undergraduate program in order for future students to gain these skills.