Exemplifying definitions: A case of a square

Rina Zazkis; Roza Leikin

doi:10.1007/s10649-008-9131-7

Exemplifying definitions: A case of a square

Rina Zazkis, Roza Leikin

Department of Mathematics Education

Research output: Contribution to journal › Article › peer-review

Abstract

In this study we utilize the notion of learner-generated examples, suggesting that examples generated by students mirror their understanding of particular mathematical concepts. In particular, we explore examples generated by a group of prospective secondary school teachers for a definition of a square. Our framework for analysis includes the categories of accessibility and correctness, richness, and generality. Results shed light on participants' understanding of what a mathematical definition should entail and, moreover, contrast their pedagogical preferences with mathematical considerations.

Original language	English
Pages (from-to)	131-148
Number of pages	18
Journal	Educational Studies in Mathematics
Volume	69
Issue number	2
DOIs	https://doi.org/10.1007/s10649-008-9131-7
State	Published - Oct 2008

Keywords

Definitions
Example spaces
Examples
Learner-generated examples
Necessary and Sufficient conditions
Prospective teachers
Secondary mathematics teachers

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Mathematics (all)
Education

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10.1007/s10649-008-9131-7

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KW - Necessary and Sufficient conditions

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Exemplifying definitions: A case of a square

Abstract

Keywords

ASJC Scopus subject areas

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