Heuristic Strategies as a Toolbox in Complex Modelling Problems

Abstract

The support of students who are working on realistic modelling issues is a complex process, especially if it is intended, that the students work as autonomously as possible. In the underlying research project, actions of tutors were analysed as they were fostering students who were working on complex, realistic, authentic modelling problems over three days. The tutors were prepared previously in seminars. The whole process was videotaped and analysed afterwards, looking for examples of successful teacher interventions especially interventions based on the idea of strategic assistance (Zech in Grundkurs Mathematikdidaktik. Beltz, Weinheim, 1996). The findings in the research led to the insight that heuristic strategies developed within problem solving could be identified in the modelling process and are an appropriate concept to formulate strategic interventions. This is shown here by examples based on the analysis of observed student solutions and a standard solution.