The Function Machine as a Cognitive Root for the Function Concept / David Tall, Mercedes McGowen and Phil DeMarois.

The concept of function is considered as foundational in mathematics. Yet, it proves to be elusive and subtle for students. A generic image that can act as a cognitive root for the concept is the function box. This is not a simple pattern-spotting device, but a concept that embodies the salient feat...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Tall, David Orme
McGowen, Mercedes (Author)
DeMarois, Phil (Author)
Language:English
Published: [Place of publication not identified] : Distributed by ERIC Clearinghouse, 2000.
Subjects:
Algebra.
Cognitive Processes.
Concept Formation.
Functions (Mathematics)
Mathematics Instruction.
Secondary Education.
Opinion Papers.
Speeches/Meeting Papers.
Genre:
Opinion Papers.
Speeches/Meeting Papers.
Physical Description:9 pages
Format: Microfilm Book
Description
Summary:
The concept of function is considered as foundational in mathematics. Yet, it proves to be elusive and subtle for students. A generic image that can act as a cognitive root for the concept is the function box. This is not a simple pattern-spotting device, but a concept that embodies the salient features of the idea of function, including process (input-output) and object, with the various representations seen as methods of controlling input-output. (Contains 16 references.) (Author/MM)
Note:ERIC Note: Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the North American Chapter of the International Group for the Psychology of Mathematics Education (22nd, Tucson, AZ, October 7-10, 2000).
Microform.
Call Number:ED466964 Microfiche
Reproduction Note:
Microfiche. [Washington D.C.]: ERIC Clearinghouse microfiches : positive.