The role of mental argumentation in mathematics vis-à-vis property perception and the operational mode

Part of : Review of science, mathematics and ICT education ; Vol.3, No.2, 2009, pages 49-67

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49-67
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Abstract:
In this article, mental argumentation concerning the doing of mathematics is characterized by that part of reasoning dealing with the perception of properties, in contrast to that involving an operational mode of thinking. In particular, the role of mental argumentation is argued in terms of semantics, holism, the usage of symbolism and what reasoning can be achieved without pen and paper. The discourse is based on a succession of mathematical tasks, stated in the text together with solutions and comments on how the solutions could be reached. What transpires is that there is a mutual dependence between mental argumentation and operational working, even though at first the two might seem to represent opposites. A partial account of the nature of this interaction is given.
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Keywords:
mental argumentation, property based thinking, meaning in mathematics, thinking globally, the role of symbols, argumentation mentale, pensée basée en propriété, sens en mathématiques, penser universellement, le rôle des symboles
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