Overcoming difficulties in learning calculus concepts : the case of Grade 12 students

Abstract

Research has indicated the importance of calculus knowledge for undergraduate programs in science and technology fields. Unfortunately, one of the main challenges faced by students who join science and technology fields is their knowledge of calculus concepts. The main purpose of the study is to overcome students‟ difficulties in learning calculus concepts by developing a literature informed intervention model. A design-based research approach of three phases was conducted. Grade 12 natural science stream students in one administrative zone in Ethiopia were used as the study population. Triangulated themes of students‟ difficulties and common conceptual issues that are causes of these synthesized difficulties in calculus were used as a foundation to propose an intervention model. Based on the proposed model, an intervention was prepared and administered. A pre post-test aimed to asses students‟ conceptual knowledge in calculus was used to examine the effect of the model. Quantitative analysis of the test revealed that the intervention has a positive effect. The experimental group score is better than the controlled group score with independent t-statistics, t = 4.195 with alpha =.05. In addition, qualitative analysis of the test revealed that students in the experimental group are able to overcome many of the difficulties. In particular, many students demonstrated process level conception, conceptual reasoning, qualitative justification, a consistency in reasoning, less algebraic error, and a proficiency in symbolic manipulation. The study concludes with Implications for practice that includes the use of students‟ errors and misconceptions as an opportunity for progression. Besides, students should be assisted to make sense of concepts through real-life problems, including training teachers in problem-solving approaches and mathematical thinking practice.