Perceiving Precedence: Order of Operations Errors Are Predicted by Perception of Equivalent Expressions

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session 8
  In Poster Session: Motivation and Cognitive Processes

Abstract

Middle schoolers often solve problems left-to-right, which sometimes conflicts with precedence (the order of operations). Research has shown that perceptual processes are involved in gaining fluency with precedence. We examined 217 middle schoolers’ propensity for precedence errors on six problems in a mathematics game. We included as predictors of students’ errors an algebra knowledge assessment and a perceptual math equivalence task measuring quick detection of equivalent expression. We found that students varied in propensity for precedence errors, which was better predicted by students’ performance on the perceptual math equivalence task than algebra knowledge. Students’ performance on the perceptual task and interactive game data provide rich insights into their thinking about precedence and the role of perceptual processes in equation solving.

Authors

• Jeffrey K. Bye, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

• Ji-Eun Lee, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Jenny Yun-Chen Chan, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Avery Harrison Closser, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Stacy Shaw, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

• Erin R Ottmar, Worcester Polytechnic Institute