The notion of compartmentalization: the case of Richard

Author: Eraslan, Ali¹

Source: International Journal of Mathematical Education in Science and Technology, Volume 38, Number 8, January 2007 , pp. 1065-1073(9)

Publisher: Taylor and Francis Ltd

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Abstract:

One of the important phenomena observed in the learning of mathematics is compartmentalization. This phenomenon occurs when a learner has two different, potentially contradictory schemes in his or her cognitive structure; in a typical case, a student deals with the same mathematical concept in an inconsistent or incoherent way, or activates a less relevant scheme to the situation in his or her mind. This research reports a case of compartmentalization phenomenon in which Richard, a tenth-grade algebra honours student, was interviewed on quadratic tasks. Results show evidence for the existence of compartmentalization related to the vertex of a parabola. The article concludes with some suggested educational implications.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: 10.1080/00207390601129170

Affiliations: 1: Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey

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