The Synthesis of Learning Management Models that Promote Mathematical Problem Solving for Primary School Stu-dents in Thailand

Abstract

Problem solving is the main purpose of mathematics learning and the key procedural skill of mathematics instruction. The purpose of this study is to synthesize and evaluate a learning management model that promotes mathematical problem solving for primary school students in Thailand. This research was divided into two phases: 1) the synthesis of learning management model in which a qualitative research method by document analysis and focus group discussion were considered. The research tool is the documented form of data analysis whose data were obtained from the study of a learning management model promoting mathematical problem solving, and 2) inspecting the validity of the learning management model by using a quantitative research model in which the research method was a survey. The research tools consist of a questionnaire to assess the appropriateness of the learning management model that promotes mathematical problem solving for elementary school students in Thailand. In addition, the data were analyzed by analytical lectures and interpretive summaries. The statistics used in the research were mean and standard deviation. The research results showed that 1) the mathematical problem-solving process included five steps as follows: 1. analyze and understand the problem, 2. plan to solve the problem, 3. choose a strategy for problem solving, 4. Use the strategy for problem solving, and 5. Evaluate the answer and method; and 2) the result of the validity of the learning management model that promotes mathematical problem solving for elementary school students in Thailand from nine experts. It was found that the overall appropriateness was at the highest level (M=4.73, S.D.=0.48) and it could be utilized in learning management that enhanced mathematical problem solving efficiently.