Volume 9 · Number 3 ·
Pages 328–339
Constructivist Model Building: Empirical Examples From Mathematics Education
Catherine Ulrich, Erik S. Tillema, Amy J. Hackenberg & Anderson Norton
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Abstract
Context: This paper outlines how radical constructivist theory has led to a particular methodological technique, developing second-order models of student thinking, that has helped mathematics educators to be more effective teachers of their students. Problem: The paper addresses the problem of how radical constructivist theory has been used to explain and engender more viable adaptations to the complexities of teaching and learning. Method: The paper presents empirical data from teaching experiments that illustrate the process of second-order model building. Results: The result of the paper is an illustration of how second-order models are developed and how this process, as it progresses, supports teachers to be more effective. Implications: This paper has the implication that radical constructivism has the potential to impact practice.
Key words: Second-order model, radical constructivism, teaching, mathematics education
Citation
Ulrich C., Tillema E. S., Hackenberg A. J. & Norton A. (2014) Constructivist model building: Empirical examples from mathematics education. Constructivist Foundations 9(3): 328–339. http://constructivist.info/9/3/328
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