In Clark and Lovric ("Suggestion for a theoretical model for secondary-tertiary transition in mathematics", "Math. Educ. Res. J." 20(2) (2008), pp. 25-37) we began developing a model for the secondary-tertiary transition in mathematics, based on the anthropological notion of a rite of passage. We articulated several reasons why we believe that the…

In this note we develop a framework that makes explicit the inherent dynamic structure of certain mathematical definitions by means of the four facets of context-entity-process-object. These facets and their interrelations are then used to capture and interpret specific aspects of student constructions of the concept of solution to first order…

Development of mathematical problem solving skills is an age old problem in mathematics. This paper details the design of a component of a first year university mathematics course in which group work and mathematical communication skills, especially writing skills, are used as a tool to develop non-routine problem solving skills. In this design…

Mathematical models and their construction are discussed. Successful mathematical model building is suggested as requiring a combination of deductive thinking and an understanding of the external world. (MP)

The cognitive method, an algorithmic method for transforming verbal word problems into equations, equation systems, inequalities, etc., is presented and discussed. The psychological and mathematical aspects of the cognitive method are also reviewed. (MP)