From the teaching through open problem solving to mathematical investigations: possibilities for learning

Abstract

Considering the present complex scenario where the school context is inserted and the need for Mathematics teaching that will enable students to understand Mathematics effectively, the present article shows a present perspective of working on problem solving in Mathematics classes. In such perspective, the mathematical investigations from the proposition of open problems are valued. With the objective of discussing the investigations carried out by students from open problems and their possibilities for Mathematics teaching, data from a qualitative approach field research conducted with 11 and 12-year old students from a Brazilian public school are presented. Such data lead to the conclusion that the open character of the proposed problem and the further investigation played a very important role in the emergency of several strategies of solution by the students, respecting the different kinds of learning and favoring different approaches for the same mathematical content.