Effects of the multiple solutions and question prompts on generalization and justification for non-routine mathematical problem solving in a computer game context

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of solution methods and question prompts on generalization and justification of non-routine problem solving for Grade 9 students. The learning activities are based on the context of the frog jumping game. In addition, related computer tools were used to support generalization and justification of non-routine problem solving. Non-equivalent pretest/posttest quasi experimental design was adopted in this study. The experimental results are summarized as follows: (1) generalization and justification performance of non-routine problem solving for students in the specific prompt group is significantly better than that for students in the general prompt group, and (2) generalization and justification performance of non-routine problem solving for students in the multiple-solution group is significantly better than that for students in the single-solution group. Finally, suggestions were proposed based on the results found in this study, which may serve as useful directions for teachers and future studies. © 2014 by iSER.