Mathematical modeling, the solving of open-ended, reality-based text problems, is an important part of mathematical education. However, many pupils find it difficult to solve modeling tasks, which raises the question of how they can be supported in the best possible way. In the first project phase of “ViMo”, drawing a sketch proved to be a promising strategy for promoting modeling skills in the field of geometry. However, it turned out that simply asking students to draw a sketch was not enough for them to benefit from drawing. The question of how drawing a sketch can be effectively promoted in the classroom therefore remained unanswered. This is why a second project phase, “ViMo 2”, is starting next year under the direction of Junior Professor Dr. Johanna Schönherr (University of Paderborn) in cooperation with Professor Dr. Stanislaw Schukajlow (University of Münster). The project is being funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) with around half a million euros. The project will run for three years.

Strategy promotion by means of eye movements

The aim of the research project is to find out what role declarative and procedural strategy knowledge components and strategy-related motivation play in sketching quality and modeling performance. A total of four studies are planned in the ninth year of comprehensive schools in North Rhine-Westphalia. Eye movements will be used as an innovative form of instruction to teach strategy and the pupils' eye movements will be recorded and evaluated. The results of this project will not only contribute to a theoretical gain in knowledge, but also have practical relevance for teaching practice in mathematics.