Integrating ICT in mathematics teaching methods course: How has ICT changed student teacher’s perception about problem solving

Abstract

Problem solving is characteristic of mathematical activity and an important way of developing mathematical knowledge. A main purpose of mathematics teaching and learning is to develop the ability to solve a wide variety of complex mathematics problems. However, the process of problem solving in mathematics has not been given the proper recognition, probably due to the fact that teachers themselves are not comfortable with problem solving. As a result, teachers do not teach the process and technique of problem solving as an integral part of mathematics learning process. This paper will look into student teachers’ beliefs about problem solving and how these beliefs change with the use of Information Technology. This move is actually an effort to integrate Information Communication Technology in a Mathematics Teaching Methods Course with the intention of changing the student teachers’ beliefs and perception about problem solving so that they can become better problem solvers themselves and also to encourage students to develop a broad range of problem solving strategies