Learning via Problem Solving by Terry Ng

Mathematical Problem Solving is the centre of MOE’s Primary Mathematics Framework and it is interesting to watch the teacher go through the Polya’s 4 stages of problem solving. The teacher constantly gets the students to understand the problem. She would tell them to devise a plan to tackle the problem and carry it out. Finally, she would ask them to check or reflect on their answers. As part of professional development for teachers, it would be interesting to model and represent what Polya’s 4 stages of problem solving entails. It would be in line with the concept of learning via problem solving – which appears to best embody the framework.

A study similar to Kai Fai Ho (2005), but with some modifications could be carried to test the effectiveness of learning via problem solving. The first stage similar to Kai’s study would be observations and interviews cum pretest to gather data on the teachers’ pedagogical approaches as well as the extent to which they apply Polya’s 4 stages of problem solving. Then the teachers are categorized according to the amount of time in which they use Polya’s 4 stages of problem solving during their lesson. Coding methods similar to that used in Kai (2005) study. The classes of students will be categorized based on their mathematical abilities. Stage 2 will cover the training of randomized selection of teachers and classes so that there will be a control and experimental group in each category. The selected teachers forming the experimental group will be trained to conduct math lessons based on the idea of learning via problem solving. A post test is conducted and students and teachers interviewed to gather information about the lessons, their learning and attitudes towards the lessons – both controlled and experimental groups. Issues that threaten the validity and reliability of the study should be looked into and eliminated or at least minimized or controlled.

The teacher has a key role in the learning of a child. The McKinsey Report, (2007) mentions that a good teacher teaching a full size class is as effective as an average teacher teaching a half sized class. The training of our teachers is crucial to the successful implementation of our national curriculum.

Blogging is a tool which allows many to share their ideas and experiences. This sharing is important to the development and improvement in educational pedagogies and knowledge. It creates a community of teachers and learners across the globe - all sharing the same passion - for the improvement of mankind through education.

References
Kai Fai H., John G. H. (2005). Teachers’ Pedagogies and Their Impact on Students’ Mathematical Problem Solving. Journal of Mathematical Behavior; vol. 24, 238-252.
Michael, B., Mona, M.(2007). McKinsey Report. McKinsey & Company.