Rectangular Array Model Supporting Students’ Spatial Structuring in Learning Multiplication

Nenden Octavarulia Shanty,Surya Wijaya

doi:10.22342/jme.3.2.603.175-186

Nenden Octavarulia Shanty, Surya Wijaya

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.22342/jme.3.2.603.175-186

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Abstract

We examine how rectangular array model can support students' spatial structuring in learning multiplication. To begin, we define what we mean by spatial structuring as the mental operation of constructing an organization or form for an object or set of objects. For that reason, the eggs problem was chosen as the starting point in which the students could recognize such an arrangement. Geoboard was also be used as a tool to visualize the array. This research focused on a design research that was conducted in Surya Institute Program (SIP) in which investigated 12 Papuan students (between 10 and 11 years old) in connecting rectangular array model with the idea of multiplication. The result showed that rectangular array model indeed support the students to count things more efficient, able to see the structural similarities of arrays and created spatial structures for sets of objects.

Highlights

Multiplication, as a concept and skills, is one of the learning objectives from grade 2 elementary school
We examine how rectangular array model can support students’ spatial structuring in learning multiplication
Array models are used to show multiplicative relationships, Outhread & Mitchelmore [4] revealed that the students may not see structural similarities of discrete arrays and arrays as a grid of contiguous squares, they may not connect an array of squares with multiplication

Summary

Introduction

Multiplication, as a concept and skills, is one of the learning objectives from grade 2 elementary school It comes after basic addition and subtraction have been taught. In Indonesia, learning multiplication often focuses in counting the number of equal groups of objects which leads the students to the idea of multiplication as repeated addition. This research was used a method of learning and teaching mathematics that is called “Matematika GASING” (GAmpang aSyIk menyenaNGkan) or easy, exciting and enjoyable mathematics which developed by the Surya Institute. This method helps students to learn math whatever the person’s background. “How can rectangular array model support students’ spatial structuring in learning multiplication?”

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