The aim of this study is to explore the possibility of introducing the general notions of function and inverse function through a mathematical activity on linear functions, focusing on the quantitative meaning associated to the connection between a relation and its inverse. We present a genetic decomposition, that is, a viable cognitive path for…

This paper introduces a model built upon the Method of Varying Inquiry, offering a didactical approach to problem posing and solving activities that stimulates inquiry-based learning in mathematics classrooms. The model combines the inquiry-based framework with the variation theory and with specific didactical and theoretical elements (the…

Certain aspects of theoretical frameworks in mathematics education can remain unexplained in the literature, hence unnoticed by the readers. It is thus interesting to participate in a dialogue where they can be discussed and compared in terms of the aims, objects studied, results and their relation to teaching. This study is focused on how APOS…

Motivated by the question, "What exactly about a mathematical concept should students discover, when they study it via discovery learning?", I present and demonstrate an interpretation of discovery pedagogy that attempts to address its criticism. My approach hinges on decoupling the solution process from its resultant product. Whereas theories of…

Discusses Brousseau's work on the theory of didactical situations in mathematics and its applications in mathematics classrooms which do not address the collection of obvious components, but instead discuss phenomena by analyzing knowledge in given situations. Meanings emerge in situations engineered by analyzing a situation and developing an…

Discusses the gap between educational theories and practice and focuses on constructivism in mathematics classrooms. Contains 12 references. (ASK)

Examples from arithmetic, algebra, and calculus show that analogy and metaphor are as central to the expression of mathematical meaning as they are to expression of meaning in natural language. (MP)

The question is raised: What comes first: rules of calculation or the meaning of concepts? The pressures on the teacher to teach and simplify knowledge to algorithms are discussed. The relation between conceptual and procedural knowledge in school mathematics and consequences for the teacher's professional knowledge are considered. (DC)

The need for improving the dialog between teacher and student is promoted as an important step towards improving the mathematics curriculum. (MP)

A description of De Morgan's life and work is followed with quotations of his thoughts and insights on the teaching and learning of mathematics. The purpose is to illustrate the sharpness of his ideas, his creative insights, and his wit for the enjoyment of the reader. (DC)

The roles and uses of symbols in mathematical thinking are discussed. The thinking process is further subdivided into specialization, generalization, and reasoning. (MP)

Principles on which the teaching of mathematics is based are discussed. Sections concern the skill principle, the curriculum principle, and learning strategy, with many classroom illustrations. (MNS)

Discusses "connectionism," an alternative learning model wherein meaning resides in the function of the whole state of a network, rather than being localizable in certain symbols or areas. Topics discussed include integration with other learning models; the culture of the mathematics classroom; and characteristics of alternative…

Begins with the assumption that by practicing something one often learns something else. A discussion is presented on the historical and social development of knowledge, the cognitive development of students, the role of teachers, and the meaning of learning situations. (PK)