Mathematical communication: Problem solving in teaching and learning mathematics

Abstract

Based on the study of mathematic problems created by Clements in 1970 and 1983 in Penang, it was found that students in Malaysia do not have a problem of serious thought. However, the real problem is related to read, understand and make the right transformation when solving mathematical problems, especially those involving mathematical word problem solving. Communication is one of the important elements in the process of solving problems that occur in the teaching and learning of mathematics. Students have the opportunities to engage in mathematic communication such as reading, writing and listening and at least have two advantages of two different aspects of communication which are to study mathematics and learn to communicate mathematically. Most researchers in the field of mathematics education agreed, mathematics should at least be studied through the mail conversation. The main objective of this study is the is to examine whether differences level of questions based on Bloom’s Taxonomy affect the level of communication activity between students and teachers in the classroom. In this study, researchers wanted to see the level of questions which occur with active communication and if not occur what is the proper strategy should taken by teachers to promote the effective communication, engaging study a group of level 4 with learning disabilities at a secondary school in Seremban that perform mathematical tasks that are available. The study using a qualitative approach, in particular sign an observation using video as the primary method. Field notes will also be recorded and the results of student work will be taken into account to complete the data recorded video. Video data are primary data for this study. Analysis model by Powell et al., (2013) will was used to analyze recorded video. Milestones and critical during this study will be fully taken into account.