Conjecturing an effective problem-solving heuristic instructional approach for circle geometry

Abstract

Abstract- This paper reports on an investigation into finding an effective contemporary problem- solving instructional approach for circle geometry. The participants were high school learners in a South African school. This proposed instructional approach-the IPAC model, adopted four elements of this new approach, namely, the infusion approach, Polya’s approach, and APOS theory in a collaborative learning classroom. This study followed a mixed-method research design. The quantitative data was analysed by implementing descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, while content analysis was performed on data extracted from qualitative questionnaires. The research findings that emanated from this study were the following: the validity, practicality and effectiveness of the designed model were established. Based on these research findings, the researcher recommended among others: (1) the designed model, should be implemented for teaching and learning of mathematics in general and circle geometry in particular, in South African schools; (2) teaching of thinking skills and teaching effective problem-solving instructional approaches should be prioritized in mathematics classrooms in South Africa.