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Self-explanation training improves proof comprehension
journal contribution
posted on 2013-11-20, 11:40 authored by Mark Hodds, Lara AlcockLara Alcock, Matthew InglisMatthew InglisIn this paper we report three experiments demonstrating that a simple booklet containing self explanation
training, designed to focus students’ attention on logical relationships within a
mathematical proof, can significantly improve their proof comprehension. Experiment 1
demonstrates that students who receive the training generate higher quality explanations and
perform better (effect size d = 0.950) on a comprehension test. Experiment 2 demonstrates
that self-explanation training increases students’ cognitive engagement and the frequency
with which they move their attention around a proof. Experiment 3 demonstrates that a 15-
minute in-lecture self-study intervention improves students’ proof comprehension, and that
the effect persists over time. Thus we argue that ‘transition to proof’ courses should
incorporate self-explanation training.
History
School
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- Mathematics Education Centre