A Longitudinal Study of the Development of Primary Students' Knowledge About the Properties of Spatially-Oriented Diagrams in Mathematics [ 2002-08-10 - 2005-12-31 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Carmel Diezmann (Postdoctoral Fellow)

Brief description A Longitudinal Study of the Development of Primary Students' Knowledge About the Properties of Spatially-Oriented Diagrams in Mathematics. Diagrams are important tools for the solution of novel (non-routine) problems and the organization of data because they integrate information in ways that facilitate reasoning. Diagrams also underpin many technological applications (E.g., hyperlinks on web-pages from a "network"). Ground-breaking research in the US with adults has identified the properties of general-purpose diagrams (networks, matrices, hierarchies). These properties constitute the "building blocks" of diagrammatic knowledge - like grammar in language. This study investigates children's knowledge of the properties of diagrams and the formation of this fundamental knowledge. The outcomes will enhance 21st century mathematical literacy, guide curriculum development, and inform teacher education.

Funding Amount $206,000

Funding Scheme Discovery Projects

View this grant in the ARC Data Portal