Mathematical Thinking in Mathematical Modelling Activities

Resumo

This paper describes a study that aims to investigate the question “Do the cognitive processes that take place during modelling activities conduct students to advanced mathematical thinking?” We based our arguments on the theoretical frame related to advanced mathematical thinking and the characterization of the cognitive processes regarding mathematical thinking. We analyzed the progress of a student in the course of Mathematical Teaching, during the development of mathematical modelling activities. The research question was investigated with a qualitative approach and an interpretative analysis, through audio recordings, video, and written data. Analyzes processes indicated that the characterization of mathematical thinking occurs in the interaction of elementary and advanced mathematical thinking processes, and such relationship occurs between a real world situation and a mathematical situation.