An analysis of work team learning processes of second year university mathematical students in Rwanda when dealing with a mathematical modelling problem interpretation, discussion and recommendations

Abstract

In our daily lives, we always have to tackle various problems in order to survive. The outcome of our effort is then our daily bread. Surely all of us are concerned. We solve some of these problems through research in different fields. Mathematics, in which the current study is embedded, is one of these fields. This study focuses particularly on mathematical modelling. Solving day-to-day real problems has become almost an obsession. Mathematical modelling is not only a way of solving some of these daily real-life problems, but it is also a way of demonstrating how mathematics can be applied in this way. The present research is concerned with the learning processes in mathematical modelling. It shows how students have been more creative in mathematics. At the same time it challenges the activity system in terms of learning mathematical modelling.