Mathematics teaching learning strategy for mathematical reasoning: a critical review of past studies

Abstract

Mathematics education is very important for students during their schooling, as it makes the students think logically to find logical solution of the problem. An appropriate programme for developing mathematical reasoning may help the students to become aware of the statistics, shapes, patterns that surround them in their day to day life. Mathematical reasoning skill may be useful to the students in the fields of science, engineering and finance too. Observing the manifold usability of mathematical reasoning in day to day life, it was felt to ascertain some patterns which can guide us for making an effective mathematical reasoning programme for the students. With this major objective in mind, this paper has been an attempt to critically review the past researches. The fifteen research studies related to the teaching of mathematics are included in the review. An attempt has been made to review the past researches keeping in mind the major points—the problem of study, tools, sample, data analysis and result. Result of research studies shows that techniques used for experimental group were found to be as effective as traditional method or more effective than the traditional ones. The analysis of past studies confirms the positive response from the students and teachers towards the methodology in developing mathematical reasoning programme by different researchers.