The potential of mathematical tasks for visualizing and developing students conceptual understanding

Mathematical concepts are vital to the understanding of mathematics, but searching the litterature, the are indications of conceptual understanding being studied and discussed mainly in relation to other mathematical competencies, rather than with a focus on specific aspects of conceptual understanding, which se intend to do. In earlier studies upper secondary school students' conceptual understanding has been studied through identifying conceptual challenges in mathematical problem solving. The well-tried method will be used considering the circumstances here, with younger students.

The aim is to aquire and contribute with knowledge of younger students' conceptual understanding. One intention of this is that it may support teachers in their discussions and planning of the teaching and learning of mathematics.

The project is run in collaboration with Håstaskolan and the municipality of Hudiksvall, is funded through ULF funds (Development, Learning, Research), and is part of the overall work on students’ development of conceptual understanding in mathematics.