Department of Mathematics
Analyzing College Calculus Students' Interpretation and Use of Algebraic
Notation.
Margaret Kinzel
Boise State University
My dissertation study investigated students' interpretation and use of algebraic notation through task-based interviews. Ten calculus students participated in a sequence of four interviews in which they worked on nonroutine algebraic tasks. The analysis of the interviews focused on the ways in which students used and interpreted algebraic notation within the contexts of the tasks. Trends across an individual's work as well as trends across participants were identified. In general, it was found that the participants, while comfortable with notation, lacked sufficient insight into algebraic notation to take full advantage of its potential. That is, the participants seemed able to apply a notational approach to familiar or routine tasks but lacked the tendency and skill to apply a notational approach to a less familiar situation or to interpret notational expressions within that situation. I propose the notion of "concept of representation" to explain the students' work.
All interested persons are welcome.
The talk will be accessible to upper class students.