열린수학과 모델링

Open mathematics education and Modelling

The development of Science and Technology and the social change require new paradigm in Education. In a traditional paradigm, learners have been regarded as a passive being and knowledge could be transmitted to learner. But within this paradigm, it is difficult to confront the social change and to develop problem solving skills in various context. This results in a new, alternative perspective, Constructive paradigm. As an alternative to the traditional settings, Constructive paradigm emphasizes the learner centered instruction. The reform movement in mathematics education including NCTM's standards revolves around this paradigm and the open education movement in our educational system is based on it. Open education values learner's interest, autonomy and internal motivation in learning. However, open education has been misunderstood by most of the teachers. It should be understood as the change of paradigm. In this study, as a way of helping students connect mathematics to their everyday lives and construct meaningful mathematical knowledge and concept, mathematical modelling is suggested. It consists of posing and specifying the real problem, formulation and constructing a mathematical model, analyzing and solving a mathematical problem. interpreting the solution and comparing with reality and communicating results. In this process, technology like computer can be a powerful tool. It can help students explore various problems more easily and concretely.