Project: Problem solving as starting point for mathematics in preschool class
The aim of this project was to investigate if and how problem solving can be a starting point for the teaching of mathematics in Swedish preschool classes.
This project was concluded in 2023.
Project information
Project manager
Hanna Palmér
Project members
Hanna Palmér (Lnu) and Jorryt Van Bommel (Karlstad University)
Timetable
2014–2021
Subjects
– Mathematics Education (Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Technology)
– Pedagogy and Developmental Science (Department of Pedagogy, Faculty of Social Sciences)
Website (in Swedish)
Kau.se/matematik/forskning/pif
More about the project
Preschool class is an optional year of schooling that Swedish children can attend the year before formal schooling begins. There is increased awareness of the importance of mathematics for young children, but a diversity regarding both how preschool mathematics should be designed and what constitutes an appropriate content.
In 2014-2015 we carried out a design research study in eight pre-school classes with about 150 pupils. The aim of the intervention was to study if and how problem solving can be a starting point for the teaching of mathematics in Swedish preschool classes.
In 2015-2016 we conducted research collaboration with eight preschool class teachers on the basis of the results in the design research study. The aim was to study the implementation of a mathematics teaching based on problem solving.
In 2016-2017 we conducted the intervention Entrepreneurial mathematics in preschool class – with problem solving as a base. The study is funded by the Swedish National Agency for Education (Skolverket) and conducted in collaboration with the Municipality of Växjö. The aim is to study the implementation of entrepreneurial mathematics teaching based on problem solving in preschool class. 33 preschool class teachers are involved in the intervention.
The intervention will continue during 2018–2021. In this continuation, results on problem solving and entrepreneurial competencies from the previous interventions are merged and further developed. Further, the intervention is expanded to include problem posing. During 2021-2023, five teachers in preschool classes from Växjö Municipality will participate in the project during part of their employment.
The project is part of the research in the Mathematics Education research group.