Construction, transition, demolition? A talk by Dr David Pritchard (University of Strathclyde)
Abstract
The transition to university often exposes flaws in students’ mathematical understanding, ranging from minor gaps in knowledge to fundamental misunderstandings. In this talk I will suggest a way of looking at transition-related difficulties which treats them as reflecting not deficiencies in students’ earlier education, but something more fundamental about how we learn maths. In particular, I will draw on the metaphor of learning as construction to argue that we should focus less on helping our students to build their understanding and more on helping them to unbuild it. I will discuss some of the obstacles to doing so, and some possible ways forward.
No charge is made to attend meetings. Non-IMA members are welcome.
Please note the change of date from 3 December to 21 January.
