Effective metacognitive strategies for solving mathematical word problems

Consideration of on-line metacognition comprehended using the Balloon Method

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to comprehend on-line metacognition during mathematical word problems using the Balloon Method（Kameoka, 1990）．It also explores the number of metacognition occurrences as well as pattern development of these occurrences influences mathematical problem solving. In addition, this research investigates effective metacognitive strategies for such problems.

Utilizing a coding schemata, designed by Sannomiya（2008），that incorporates awareness, feeling, prediction, checking, evaluation, goal setting, planning, and revision, results reveal there was no correlation between the number of metacognitive occurrences and the number of problems solved accurately. On the other hand, regarding the development of patterns observed from problem solving, this research has observed a distinction between students solving problems applying logical cognitive processes and students solving using trial and error. The research reveals a significant difference in the number of correct solutions to the mathematical problems, as well as the occurrences of the awareness and feeling schema in student problem solving process.

From these findings, utilizing metacognition strategies is possibly effective in processing and comprehending the contents in mathematical word problems.