Mathematical Modeling: A Notion for Innovation for the Tagaytay City Science National High School Grade X Students' Mathematical Competence

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Learning Mathematics enhances critical thinking skills and problem-solving skills. Across the globe, these competencies are at the heart of almost all Mathematics Frameworks. However, some research found that these were not sufficiently enhanced among Mathematics students. Many factors were considered but the approach used by teachers was of great concern. From that, to produce a more competent Mathematics student, Philippine Mathematics education have an eye on the astounding approach used by the Singaporeans called the modeling approach.

METHODS

The study used qualitative research design. This design gives the researcher access to the thoughts and feelings of the participants through direct observation. In addition, the researcher also considered the problem-based learning approach. Students in groups, with the teacher as facilitator, were given a real-world problem in which their task is to create a model. Through it, groups were also expected to use the model to solve future-related problems. This task is called a model-eliciting activity. The participants of the study were the 18 Grade X students' of Tagaytay City Science National HS divided into 3 groups . Each student was given a survey form and feedback form. The model-eliciting activity lasted for a week with an allotted one hour per day.

RESULTS

In the beginning, some participants failed to identify other Mathematical models. The model-eliciting activity used the "Fire and Child" problem which involves probability. Each group underwent the 4 modeling stages: Description, Manipulation, Prediction, and Optimization. Through it, learners were able to access social learning. Feedbacks revealed that the activity was indeed different from the way they solve Mathematical problems however, some respondents said that it requires a lot of time. They added that it needs mastery of the basic math concepts for it to be performed.

DISCUSSIONS

After the responses from the survey were gathered, the 4 modeling stages showed several data results. From Description, the participants build arguments. In Manipulation stage, the participants considered the relationship of the basic math concepts, and make assumptions out of it. After that, they formulated the model. Since time constraints were needed each group was given a chance to rethink of the model. It is the Prediction stage. Lastly, from Optimization, they created an enhanced model. After the activity, feedbacks were gathered from the participants.