Inquiry Skills and Problem Solving Efficacy and Performance of Pre-Service Mathematics Teachers

Abstract

CampusAbstractAdequate acquisition and development of high-level cognitive skills is an integral component of teaching and learning. The study looks into inquiry skills in the context of mathematical investigation and problem solving efficacy and performance of 41 randomly selected pre-service mathematics teachers (PSTs) in two state universities in northern part of Panay Island using validated and pilot-tested researcher-made instruments. Statistical analyses were used to summarize the levels of performance and relate inquiry skills, problem solving efficacy and performance; and thematic analysis for difficulties and misconceptions of PSTs on mathematical inquiry and problem solving. The pre-service mathematics teachers have developing problem solving efficacy implying the need to reconcile their optimism in their ability to solve problems and their actual performance through relevant learning experience. As they are yet to attain the proficient level of skills in problem solving and mathematical inquiry, the development of their skills in these competencies may have been inadequate to effectively facilitate acquisition of learning, understanding and transfer of knowledge and skills among learners expected from future teachers. The ability of pre-service mathematics teachers to formulate mathematical concepts and principles operationally and prove these mathematical statements are not adequately developed as they have difficulties in exploring mathematical situations, employing appropriate reasoning in analyzing and abstracting patterns, and formulating generalizations. There are complementary associations between inquiry skills and problem solving performance such that the development of one implies the need to develop the other. Learning difficulties and misconceptions are attributed to inadequate development of fundamental skills necessary towards successful problem solving and mathematical investigation.