Conceptual Understanding for Systems of Linear Equations: Difficulties and Challenges

Authors

M. Tashtoush, Department of Basic Sciences, AL-Huson University College, AL-Balqa Applied University, AL-Salt, Jordan\\ Department of Mathematics Educations, Faculty of Education and Arts, Sohar University, Sohar, OmanFollow
Y. Wardat, Department of Mathematics Educations, Higher Colleges of Technology, Al Ain, United Arab EmiratesFollow
M. Al-Shannaq, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Faculty of Education, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman\\ Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Faculty of Education, Yarmouk University, Irbid, JordanFollow
R. AlAli, The National Research Centre for Giftedness and Creativity, King Faisal University, Al-Hasa, Saudi ArabiaFollow
S. Saleh, The National Research Centre for Giftedness and Creativity, King Faisal University, Al-Hasa, Saudi Arabia\\ Department of Educational Technology, Faculty of Education, Sohag University, Sohag, EgyptFollow
K. AL-Saud, Department of Art Educations, Faculty of Education, King Faisal University, Al-Hasa, Saudi ArabiaFollow

Abstract

The conceptual understanding of algebraic concepts is challenging to students, adds to the challenge of teaching them. This study aimed to reveal the level of conceptual understanding about Systems of Linear Equations (SLEs) and its difficulties that faced students while they solving problems. The study sample consisted of (68) male and female students of linear algebra course. The conceptual understanding test was prepared with two qualitative and quantitative rubrics to classify students’ levels. The study results showed a decrease in the conceptual understanding of SLEs in general, and in the area of realizing the relationships between concepts related to SLEs in particular. In contrast, the level of conceptual understanding of students was medium in the context of multiple representations. The results also showed many difficulties that students face while solving SLEs. The study recommended the need to focus on the conceptual understanding of concepts related to SLEs and to use multiple representations and connect them together when teaching mathematical concepts.

Recommended Citation

Tashtoush, M.; Wardat, Y.; Al-Shannaq, M.; AlAli, R.; Saleh, S.; and AL-Saud, K. (2023) "Conceptual Understanding for Systems of Linear Equations: Difficulties and Challenges," Information Sciences Letters: Vol. 12 : Iss. 12 , PP -.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.aaru.edu.jo/isl/vol12/iss12/10