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International Studies in Phenomenology and Philosophy

Book | Chapter

209737

Proof, mathematical problem-solving, and explanation in mathematics teaching

Kazuhiko Nunokawa

pp. 223-236

Abstract

We expect mathematical proofs to explain why the propositions in question are true or why certain mathematical phenomena occur in certain situations. In this paper, I reexamine explanation-building processes by taking them as problem-solvers' understanding processes and by referring to research that has analyzed the relationships between explorations, understandings, and explanations in mathematical problem-solving. I discuss some interactive features among these components during problem-solving processes by introducing some examples and referring to that research. I then use those features to offer an elaborated conception of explanation-building processes that takes into consideration local explanations, full explanations, and the direct and indirect relationships between local and full explanations.

Publication details

Published in:

Hanna Gila, Jahnke Hans Niels, Pulte Helmut (2010) Explanation and proof in mathematics: philosophical and educational perspectives. Dordrecht, Springer.

Pages: 223-236

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-0576-5_15

Full citation:

Nunokawa Kazuhiko (2010) „Proof, mathematical problem-solving, and explanation in mathematics teaching“, In: G. Hanna, H. Jahnke & H. Pulte (eds.), Explanation and proof in mathematics, Dordrecht, Springer, 223–236.