Mathematical Word Problems: Factors Causing Students Difficulty When Answering
Date of Award
Spring 5-15-2020
Document Type
Project (696 or 796 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
David Kupferman
Keywords
mathematical word problems
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate what factors, if any, cause student’s difficulty when answering mathematical word problems in the classroom at a mid-size Midwestern State University. The class, comprised of thirty juniors and seniors of all genders, was tested toward the beginning of the semester on a variety of written mathematical word problems. Observations were made, in addition to ethnographic interviews to get students' perspective on the topic. Semantic differential questionnaires were used to get an idea of where students were at with their progress. Adjustments were made during the course to get a better understanding of the students' process to solving these types of problems. Knowing which factors impact students most with these types of problems will help tailor how to write them in future tests. A final test was administered to students, allowing me to analyze students’ performance after changes were made.
Recommended Citation
Christian, Grant, "Mathematical Word Problems: Factors Causing Students Difficulty When Answering" (2020). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 339.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/339