On the Edges of Flow: Student Problem-Solving Behavior

Abstract

Engagement in mathematical problem solving are aspects of problem solving that are often overlooked in our efforts to improve students' problem solving abilities. In this chapter I look at this constructs through the lens of Csíkszentmihályi's theory of flow. Studying the problem solving habits of students within a problem solving environment specifically designed to induce flow I look specifically at student behavior when there is an imbalance between students' problem solving skills and the challenge of the task at hand. Results indicate that students have higher than expected perseverance in the face of challenge and tolerance in the face of the mundane, and use these as buffers while autonomously correcting the imbalance. Emerging from this research is an extension to Csíkszentmihályi's theory of flow and support for the teaching methods emerging out of my earlier work on Building Thinking Classrooms.