Considering Multiple Solutions for Modelling Problems – Design and First Results from the MultiMa-Project

Abstract

This chapter deals with the research project MultiMa that investigates the effects of treating multiple solutions while solving modelling problems on student achievements and motivation in mathematics. First, the starting points of MultiMa are discussed followed by the effects of treating multiple solutions from theoretical and empirical points of view. The MultiMa project goals and methods including important research steps are discussed. Finally, a modelling task is presented and first results of the explorative video study are introduced. The analysis of videos shows that students had only minor problems while solving the task, where two outcomes were demanded. If they could find one solution, the second outcome was developed also. Further, students seldom compared different outcomes and did not discuss why there were differences in outcomes.