Enabling students to seek computer-based scaffolds for solving mathematical word problems

Hercy N.H. Cheng, Yana C.Y. Huang, Euphony F.Y. Yang, Jennifer M.S. Wu, Tak Wai Chan

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Scaffolding can develop a student's ability to internalize new information on the basis of prior knowledge. However, it assumes that all students are novices and likely limits students' way of thinking. Therefore, this paper incorporates the concept of help seeking in the usage of scaffolds, so that students can think as a whole before using scaffolds. The authors preliminarily designed an activity flow of seeking scaffolds. Furthermore, a trial study was conducted to investigate students' behaviors of choosing and using scaffolds. The result showed that the activity flow encouraged students to make attempts first without the limitation of scaffolds. Yet, it was also found that students lacked the ability to use scaffolds appropriately, suggesting further improvement.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 18th International Conference on Computers in Education
Subtitle of host publicationEnhancing and Sustaining New Knowledge Through the Use of Digital Technology in Education, ICCE 2010
Pages639-646
Number of pages8
Publication statusPublished - 2010
Externally publishedYes
Event18th International Conference on Computers in Education: Enhancing and Sustaining New Knowledge Through the Use of Digital Technology in Education, ICCE 2010 - Putrajaya, Malaysia
Duration: Nov 29 2010Dec 3 2010

Publication series

NameProceedings of the 18th International Conference on Computers in Education: Enhancing and Sustaining New Knowledge Through the Use of Digital Technology in Education, ICCE 2010

Conference

Conference18th International Conference on Computers in Education: Enhancing and Sustaining New Knowledge Through the Use of Digital Technology in Education, ICCE 2010
Country/TerritoryMalaysia
CityPutrajaya
Period11/29/1012/3/10

Keywords

  • Help seeking
  • Mathematical word problems
  • Problem solving
  • Scaffolding

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Computer Science (miscellaneous)
  • Education

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