Multiple Representations of Mathematical Reasoning
ResearchPublished 1988
ResearchPublished 1988
Multiple alternative representations of mathematical reasoning have interesting applications in the context of an intelligent tutor for basic algebra. This Note describes the notion of multiple representations at a general level. It then describes RAND's intelligent algebra tutor and specific tools it contains that support multiple representations: a boxes-and-weights tool and goal commands. These tools provide students with important learning opportunities. The Note concludes with comments about continuing research in this area. It is important to continue implementing different representational systems and testing them in real educational contexts. In addition, theoretical work must be directed toward deriving a general classification scheme for representations.
This publication is part of the RAND note series. The note was a product of RAND from 1979 to 1993 that reported miscellaneous outputs of sponsored research for general distribution.
This document and trademark(s) contained herein are protected by law. This representation of RAND intellectual property is provided for noncommercial use only. Unauthorized posting of this publication online is prohibited; linking directly to this product page is encouraged. Permission is required from RAND to reproduce, or reuse in another form, any of its research documents for commercial purposes. For information on reprint and reuse permissions, please visit www.rand.org/pubs/permissions.
RAND is a nonprofit institution that helps improve policy and decisionmaking through research and analysis. RAND's publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its research clients and sponsors.