Sunday, September 20, 2015

EDCP 342A - Integrating Instrumental and Relational Understanding



While both instrumental and relational learning individually contribute their share towards understanding Mathematics, the union of both can produce fascinating results. For instance, relational understanding can limit our intellectual horizons while understanding the topic of limits in Mathematics. On the other hand, the topic can be thoroughly understood if approached instrumentally. 

Similarly, relational understanding is not to be underestimated, as it provides  a platform to make Math relevant. As educators, we need to instill in our future Mathematicians the importance of thinking mathematically. It is relational thinking that allows us to apply Math in other contexts.  For example,  thinking logically is as important for lawyers as for Mathematicians. Likewise, the revolutionary invention of MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) that highly relies on differentiation in Bloch Equation is only possible when the students are taught both instrumentally and relationally.

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