Unpacking mental models, strategies, and schemas pre-service mathematics teacher in solving maximum rectangular areas

Abstract

A mental model is an essential element that influences the quality of problem-solving. This study explores mental models, strategies, and schemes that are active in solving the maximum rectangular area problem. The approach used in this study is a descriptive qualitative approach. A total of four pre-service mathematics teachers as subjects were selected from 108 prospective subjects involved in the study. Data collection was carried out by providing task sheets for solving the most significant rectangular area problem and semi-structured interviews. Data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion are three stages in analyzing the research data. This study indicates three mental models for pre-service mathematics teachers in solving maximum rectangular area problems: initial, adaptive, and formal. Each has different strategies and schemes that are active while solving problems. The results of this study imply that mental models influence the quality of the problem solving process until results are obtained.