New Examination Approach for Real-World Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills in Mathematics

Abstract

This paper presents a new and innovative examination method designed to foster creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration in mathematics education. Traditional assessment practices often focus on rote memorization and fail to engage students in the exploration of mathematical concepts and connect the content to real-world problems. In contrast, the proposed examination approach requires students to invent and solve their own mathematical tasks based on their personal interests and experiences. By actively engaging with mathematical concepts and relationships, students deepen their understanding while developing essential skills such as communication, self-assessment, and peer feedback. Anonymized peer correction is also introduced as a means of minimizing bias and promoting objectivity and a wider understanding. The study investigates student perceptions of the examination based on their experiences regarding its effects on creativity and problem-solving skills. The findings suggest that the new way of examining may not only enhance students’ mathematical understanding and problem-solving abilities but also foster a collaborative learning environment that encourages communication and peer support. The paper concludes that the adoption of this new method has the potential to transform traditional assessment practices and promote more engaged, creative, and collaborative learning experiences for students in a wide range of subjects.

A Study on Teaching Design Strategies of Secondary School Mathematics Classroom Based on the Cultivation of Mathematical Core Literacy

“…Through such collaborative learning environments, students are encouraged to actively engage, discuss, and solve problems together, which not only enriches their understanding of mathematical concepts but also develops essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. This shift towards a more interactive, student-centered learning environment is not only in line with modern educational trends but also crucial for preparing students for the collaborative nature of problem-solving in real-world scenarios (Nilimaa, 2023).…”

Harnessing Information Technology in Learning: Exploring Emerging Trends and Innovative Approaches

“…Moreover, personalized learning fosters a culture of autonomy, agency, and selfdirected, learning among students, empowering them to take ownership of their education and develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and metacognitive skills (Mejeh & Rehm, 2024). By offering choice, and flexibility in learning pathways, assessments, and resources, personalized learning enables students to engage with content in meaningful and relevant ways, leading, to deeper understanding, and long-term retention (Nilimaa, 2023).…”

A Flipped Class to Support the Success of At-Risk Students

“…Once the at-risk students gain confidence to solve problems through relay, rote learning is carried out as an extension in the relay for solution activity. Although the drill-and-practice instructional feature of rote learning has been criticized (Nilimaa, 2023), it has the advantage of strengthening previous content knowledge and concepts by repeating certain exercises (Akın, 2022;Hillmayr et al, 2020). In FSC, the rote memorization is deemed temporary.…”