Research in Mathematical Education (한국수학교육학회지시리즈D:수학교육연구)

Korean Society of Mathematical Education (한국수학교육학회)
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Senior Secondary School Students' Epistemological Conceptions of Mathematics in China: Characteristics and Development Process

  • Yang, Xinrong (School of Mathematics and Statistics, Southwest University)
  • Received : 2013.04.21
  • Accepted : 2013.06.20
  • Published : 2013.06.30
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Abstract

This paper reports findings from a survey of senior secondary school students' epistemological conceptions of mathematics with the adaption of the instrument of the "Conceptions of Mathematics" - Inventory in China. The survey included a sample of 414 Grade 10 students, 441 Grade 11 students, and 400 Grade 12 students from three provinces. Descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and T-test were employed to analyze data in this study. It was found that senior secondary school students mainly focused on objectivity and reality of mathematics, without highlighting the characteristics of sociality, subjectivity, and creativity of mathematics. In addition, besides gender differences, differences were identified among students from different grades, different areas, taught by teachers with different teaching experience and experience in using reformed curriculum.

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References

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