Problem Solving Processes Shown by Grade 6 Pupils in Mathematics

This study investigated the problem solving processes and behaviours exhibited by Grade 6 pupils during the process of problem solving in mathematics. The data were gathered through the use of an observation checklist on which problem solving processes and behaviours shown by participants were immediately recorded. Twenty five pupils of mixed ability of Tafira Primary School in their second term in 1999 made up the sample for this study. These participants were observed and the data coded on observation checklists. The data were analysed qualitatively using the descriptive mode. The results highlighted that during the process of problem solving, children employed problem solving processes and exhibited behaviours consistent with problem solving in small cooperative groups in the learning of mathematics. The results also show that the use of problem solving processes by learners is a result of practice and experience in actual problem solving. The awarding of scores in problem solving for moving a step towards problem resolution or complete resolution is motivational on the part of the learners.

Autorentext

Mr Pedzisai Goronga holds a B Ed (Primary) degree and an M Ed (Educational Psychology) both from the University of Zimbabwe. Currently, he is lecturing in the Department of Educational Foundations at the same university.