Abstract:
Problem-based approach to mathematics in grades 9 and 11 in the Limpopo Province:
Teachers of schools in the central region of the Limpopo Province of South Africa received training in a problem-based approach to the teaching and learning of mathematics and introduced these principles into their classes. Follow-up visits to schools took place on a monthly basis for one year. 800 learners in Grades 9 and 11 completed the Study Orientation Questionnaire in Mathematics (SOM).
Mean age in Grade 11 was 17.5 yr. (SD = 1.4), and in Grade 9, 15.1 yr., (SD = 1.2). The differences between the post- and pre-test marks for the two groups were compared. The means for marks in mathematics were significantly different for the two groups.
AFRIKAANS: Onderwysers van skole in die sentrale streek van die Limpopo-provinsie van Suid-Afrika is opgelei in ’n probleemgebaseerde benadering
tot onderrig- en leermetodes in wiskunde en het dié beginsels in hulle klasse toegepas. Opvolgbesoeke by die betrokke skole is vir ’n jaar lank op ’n maandelikse grondslag gedoen. 800 leerders in graad 9 en 11 het die Studie-oriëntasievraelys in Wiskunde (SOW) voltooi. Die gemiddelde ouderdom in graad 11 was 17.5 jaar (SA = 1.4), en in graad 9, 15.1 jaar (SA = 1.2). Die verskille tussen die na- en
voortoetspunte van die twee groepe is vergelyk. Die twee groepe se gemiddelde punte vir wiskunde het beduidend verskil.