Learning mathematics - how norms and a second language may affect the  understanding of subtraction with borrowing : A study in some classes in Kenya

Abstract:

The purpose of this study is to observe some factors that may affect the understanding of subtraction with borrowing. The study is done in a foreign environment, in Kenya. Factors that will be looked into are: the classroom environment, the situation of learning in a second language. The study will also observe factors that can cause an erroneous answer and what those may look like. Within this area manipulatives will be mentioned.

The study has used a qualitative as well as quantitative approach. The qualitative method has been accomplished through interviews and observations, the quantitative method through tests given to the learners. For the analysis of the observations, Cobb’s and Yackel’s model (1995) of the mathematical classroom has been used. The study is interpreted from a sociocultural perspective focusing interaction.

The result in this study shows that the interaction in the classroom is important to the individual learning, perceptions of mathematics and the expectations on the individual. Learning in a second language can be a barrier. The use of manipulatives can work as a scaffold, but it can also hinder the learner to develop a deeper understanding.