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ERIC Number: EJ1428085
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024-Apr
Pages: 27
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2198-9745
EISSN: EISSN-2198-9753
Available Date: N/A
Analyzing the Structure of the Non-Examples in the Instructional Example Space for Function in Abstract Algebra
Rosaura Uscanga; John Paul Cook
International Journal of Research in Undergraduate Mathematics Education, v10 n1 p7-33 2024
The concept of function is critical in mathematics in general and abstract algebra in particular. We observe, however, that much of the research on functions in abstract algebra (1) reports widespread student difficulties, and (2) focuses on specific types of functions, including binary operation, homomorphism, and isomorphism. Direct, detailed examinations of the function concept itself--and such fundamental properties as well-definedness and everywhere-definedness--are scarce. To this end, in this paper we examine non-examples of function in abstract algebra by conducting a textbook analysis and semi-structured interviews with abstract algebra instructors. In doing so, we propose four key categories based upon the definitive function properties of well-definedness and everywhere-definedness. These categories identify specific characteristics of the kinds of non-examples of function that abstract algebra instruction should emphasize, enabling us to hypothesize how students might be able to develop a robust view of function and explain in greater detail the nature of the reported difficulties that students experience.
Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link.springer.com/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A