Problem-based approach to develop creative thinking in students majoring in mathematics at teacher training universities

Abstract

This paper looks into the issue of implementing problem-based approach to developing creative thinking in students majoring in Mathematics at teacher training universities. The object of the study is the process of developing creative thinking in students, majoring in Mathematics at teacher training Universities, through task-based approach. The methods used in the present study are theoretical analysis of research papers and resources, as well as a survey, conducted among students and lecturers. This survey is aimed at determining distinctive features of the problems in Elementary Mathematics, which can help to develop creative thinking in students. The aim of this study is to introduce the syllabus of the online-course "Creative Thinking through Teaching Elementary Mathematics"and to design a system of Open-ended and Integrative Problems in order to develop the components of creative thinking in students, majoring in Mathematics at teacher training universities. The tasks of the present study: to determine what key components of creative thinking in students majoring in Mathematics can be developed, when teaching Elementary Mathematics to them; to determine distinctive features of the Rich Tasks that will contribute to developing creative thinking in students in the course of teaching Elementary Mathematics to them; to introduce the syllabus of the online-course "Creative Thinking through Teaching Elementary Mathematics"; to design a system of rich tasks for arranging the learning process.