Bridging Gaps: Pre-Service Mathematics Teachers’ Handling the Difficulties in Posing Real-World Mathematical Problems

Abstract

Real-world mathematical problem (RWMP) solving and posing are important aspects of teaching and learning mathematical modelling, as well as developing a mathematization disposition for both teachers and students. Several researchers have explored blockages or difficulties in such modelling processes and in problem posing. However, prior research has identified difficulties that the pre-service mathematics teachers (PSMTs) encountered when they tried to pose a modelling problem by choosing the general topic themselves, as there is little known about possible obstacles that PSMTs can encounter when trying to pose a real-world problem relevant to a given mathematical topic. The current study explored the difficulties encountered by PSMTs in a RWMP-posing activity. The target group was 23 PSMTs with prior experience in mathematical modelling and mathematical problem posing. The findings showed that the PSMTs struggled with: (a) task organization, which involved selecting and understanding mathematical knowledge; (b) specialized content knowledge, which included a lack of real-world knowledge and difficulty in connecting mathematical concepts to real-world contexts; and (c) individual considerations of aptness, which encompassed authenticity, interest, complexity, language, and relevance to task organization. The PSMTs applied various strategies to complete the posing task, such as using problem-posing and solving heuristics, adapting existing problems, sharing and discussing with friends, and considering the perspective of a typical student. The implications of these findings should help in developing preparatory instructional practices for mathematics teachers.