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The strategic use of alternative representations in arithmetic word problem solving
Catherine Thevenot1, Jane Oakhill
1University of Sussex, Brighton, UK. catht@biols.susx.ac.uk
Summary
Adults typically solve arithmetic problems by following the stated order, but use more efficient strategies for complex problems. Problem difficulty influences strategy selection, favoring cognitive economy.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Mathematical Cognition
Background:
- Diverse strategies exist for solving multi-step arithmetic problems.
- Problem-solving strategies depend on the individual's mental representation of the problem.
- The organization of sub-goals and calculation order are influenced by this representation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the conditions under which adults adopt specific arithmetic problem-solving strategies.
- To understand how mental representations influence strategy selection in adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a novel paradigm to assess the timing of calculations during problem-solving.
- Analyzed strategy selection in adults presented with varying arithmetic problems.
Main Results:
- Adults generally follow the explicit order of sub-goals presented in arithmetic problems.
- Increasing problem difficulty prompts the adoption of more cognitively economic strategies.
- Low cognitive costs associated with mental representation construction increase the likelihood of using economic strategies.
Conclusions:
- Adult arithmetic strategy selection is influenced by both explicit problem structure and cognitive load.
- Cognitive efficiency plays a significant role in strategy adaptation, particularly with increased problem complexity.