Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2017

Publication Title

Journal for Advancement of Marketing Education

Volume

25

Issue

Special Issue on Teaching Innovations in Retailing Education

Pages

15-24

Abstract

Purpose of Study: The purpose of this study was to assess student preference for procedural (formula-driven) versus conceptual (concept-driven) approaches to solve mathematical problems. Additionally, we evaluated differences in preferences among students who performed above average and those who performed at or below average on simple arithmetic problems.

Methods/Design and Sample: We used a single-factor (Instructional Approach: conceptual vs. procedural) between-subjects experiment. Instructional approach was manipulated using short embedded instructional videos. Students evaluated each approach on a five-point scale.

Results: We found that students (above-average and average/below-average) preferred the procedural approach to the conceptual approach. Interestingly, however, although students preferred the procedural approach when first introduced to it, above-average students evaluated the conceptual approach more positively if they were unable to solve a problem correctly and were presented with additional conceptual instruction. On the other hand, there was no change in the evaluation of the procedural approach.

Value to Marketing Educators: The findings of this study indicate that students develop mathematical knowledge and understanding differently. Faculty who teach courses with a high degree of mathematics concepts should work to provide multiple experiences that include both procedural and conceptual techniques to develop a holistic understanding of mathematics.

Comments

© Marketing Management Association

Included with the kind written permission of the publisher.

Original Publication Citation

Mann, M., & Enderson, M. C. (2017). Give me a formula not the concept! Student preference to mathematical problem solving. Journal for Advancement of Marketing Education, 25 (Special Issue on Teaching Innovations in Retailing Education), 15-24.

ORCID

0000-0003-3743-3398 (Enderson)

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