The Impact of Real-World Mathematical Modelling Problems on Students’ Beliefs About the Nature of Mathematics

Abstract

Students’ beliefs on the nature of mathematics greatly influence their interests and attitudes towards the subject. Misconceptions regarding mathematics, such as the problems always having a unique and exact answer, can become obstacles for student learning. Research has found that mathematical modelling experiences could help students see the relevance of mathematics in the real world and their lives, but more attention is needed as to whether they affect other beliefs. This study focuses on exploring high school students’ views about mathematics when they work autonomously on solving real-world mathematical modelling problems during the selection process of the teams that represented Chile at the International Mathematical Modelling Challenge. The findings suggest that exposure to these modelling tasks has the potential to modify participants’ beliefs, for instance, with regards to the existence of many solutions and correct procedures for mathematical problem-solving.