An investigation into the nature of mathematical connections selected grade 7 teachers make when teaching fractions : a Namibian case study.

摘要

The general understanding of mathematics as a subject and its implications is, in reality alarmingly low. Evidence of this is evident in learners’ performance and their reaction towards the subject. Fractions as a domain of Mathematics are no exception. The majority of the learners do not learn Fractions comfortably. The causes of this may be varied. However, it is believed that one way of ensuring meaningful teaching and learning is to make use of appropriate connections. The significance and the important role of the teacher in making mathematical connections in learning for understanding are well documented in the literature. This study focuses on the nature of mathematical connections selected Grade 7 teachers make when teaching Fractions, as well as their perceptions of the importance of making such connections. This qualitative case study was conducted in three schools in the Oshana region. The purpose was to investigate how mathematics teachers make connections in fractions. Underpinned by an interpretive paradigm, the study made use of observations and interviews to generate data. The framework borrowed from Businkas’ (2008) study was used in analysing and coding the nature of connections used in the lessons observed. An individual conversation on the nature and perceptions of the connections made in the observed lessons was undertaken with each teacher followed by a focus group discussion that aimed at analysing deeper perceptions on connections. The main findings of the study revealed that teachers made use of all the different types of connections as per Businkas’s framework. The frequency of occurrence showed that Instruction-Oriented Connection and Multiple Representation connections topped the list of connections used. Teachers pointed out that connections to prior knowledge and making multiple representations were most significant, as they related to learners’ existing knowledge and pointed to different ways of solving a problem. The teachers were, however, not familiar with the other connections identified as this was their first experience of interrogating connections. They, however, agreed on the importance of making those connections. The teachers agreed that meaningful connections indeed helped with their conceptual understanding of Mathematics. They believed that connections can increase learners’ interest in school and help reduce negative views of fractions, in particular, and mathematics in general. However, they felt that the limited number of resources, poor teaching approaches and the inability of creating fraction sense may hinder them from making appropriate connections.