Problem solving, thinking and group work in mathematics: Developing an effective pedagogy

This research investigates the use of heuristics and thinking routines while problem solving in mathematics in a collaborative setting of small groups. The educational setting and context of this study is a year 2 classroom in a Victorian school. The study began in response to first; that a thinking classroom is an active, reflective and learning environment that promotes ideas and rich thoughts. Ron Ritchhart is [sic] his book, Intellectual Character (2002) discusses intelligence, being smart and developing intellectual character, secondly; that mathematical problem solving requires students to have a starting point. Polya’s model of understand the problem, make a plan, carry out the plan and look back (Polya, 1957) does suggest a starting point, finally; through the idea of teamwork, cooperation and sharing of ideas and strategies this allows for learning to occur in small groups. Placed in this environment, the goal of the research became an investigation into how Year 2 primary students collaborate to use heuristics and thinking routines to complete mathematical problem solving tasks..