Versatile Understanding of Linear Equations
by
Mike Thomas
University of Auckland

Many of the objects of mathematics arise as the encapsulation of processes. For example, in algebra, x + 2 is the object which generalises the process of adding two to an unknown number. Many students in secondary school find it difficult to move from a process-oriented view of mathematics to an object-based perspective. I will give some examples of how this affects students' ability to solve linear equations and describe some preliminary research using a computer environment which attempts to improve this situation by promoting a versatile view of expressions and equations.

Date received: June 24, 1998