Addressing dualism in mathematical abstraction: An argument for the role of Construal Level Theory in mathematics education
Year: 2013
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Learners of mathematics often struggle to balance the apparently conflicting demands for abstract thinking as well as (often simultaneous) concrete cognitive engagement. Conflicting demands of successful mathematical engagement have been addressed in the literature pertaining to procedural versus conceptual approaches to mathematical learning as well as in the literature on cognitive and meta-cognitive mathematical demands. Construal Level Theory offers an opportunity to understand both these dualities as aspects of the same psychological response to contextual priming. In addition, Construal Level Theory can be understood to illuminate student difficulties with heuristic strategies in mathematical problem-solving. The focus of Construal Level Theory on abstract and concrete cognitive construals as a consequence of psychological distance provides a useful lens for teaching and learning opportunities. We argue that Construal Level Theory offers an opportunity to draw together several strands of mathematics education theory and to help educators address learning challenges in the classroom.
Authors: Stuart Torr, Tracy S. Craig
Institution: University of Cape Town
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
Funder: Sasol
OpenAlex ID: W2210799523