Exploring the role of assumptions in mathematical modeling teacher training using Fermi problems

This study explores the assumptions made by pre-service primary teachers during mathematical modeling activities using Fermi problems. While mathematical modeling is emphasized in curricula worldwide, little attention has been given to how teachers can effectively support students in making the nece...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Albarracín Gordo, Lluís|||0000-0002-1387-5573, Ärlebäck, Jonas Bergman|||0000-0001-5013-8890
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Repositorio:Dipòsit Digital de Documents de la UAB
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:ddd.uab.cat:310139
Acceso en línea:https://ddd.uab.cat/record/310139
https://dx.doi.org/urn:doi:10.1007/s11858-025-01677-0
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Mathematical modeling
Fermi problems
Teacher training
Modelització matemàtica
Formació de mestres
Descripción
Sumario:This study explores the assumptions made by pre-service primary teachers during mathematical modeling activities using Fermi problems. While mathematical modeling is emphasized in curricula worldwide, little attention has been given to how teachers can effectively support students in making the necessary assumptions to solve these problems. This research addresses this gap by analyzing 100 Fermi Problem Activity Templates produced by 35 pairs of pre-service teachers, focusing on the assumptions made during model formulation, mathematical processing, and strategic choices. Results reveal participants' challenges in identifying key quantities and constructing coherent models, particularly in distant and complex contexts. While accessible activities like guesstimation and data searching dominate, strategic decisions like experimentation and statistical polling remain underutilized. Findings highlight the potential of FPATs in teacher training to foster modeling competencies and address contextual problem-solving skills.