MATHEMATICAL THINKING STYLES AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON TEACHING AND LEARNING MATHEMATICS

Abstract

A mathematical thinking style is the way in which an individual prefers to present, to understand and to think through, mathematical facts and connections by certain internal imaginations and/or externalized representations. In which way mathematical thinking styles (analytic, visual and integrated) are influence factors on the learning and teaching of mathematics is described on the basis of selected qualitative empirical studies from primary up to secondary school. Within the current MaTHSCu-project the styles are measured quantitatively by comparing mathematical thinking styles in eastern and western. This study is introduced and finally conclusions and implications for school are drawn.