What is linked to relational understanding?

Relational understanding refers to knowing both what to do and why – an understanding of all of the parts, how they relate, and why they are applied in the manner they are.

What is the difference between instrumental and relational mathematics?

Instrumental mathematics centre around rote learning, memory, rules and correct answers. Relational mathematics focus more on establishing connections, building understanding over time, applying concepts to other problems, and gradual increases in complexity.

What does it mean to say that understanding exists on a continuum from relational understanding to instrumental?

The more existing ideas that are used to give meaning to the new one, the more connections will be made. Understanding exists along a continuum (Figure 1.3) from an instrumental understanding— knowing something by rote or without meaning (Skemp, 1978)—to a relational understanding— knowing what to do and why.

What does Skemp mean by relational and instrumental understanding?

Skemp describes two perspectives on understanding mathematics, one which he calls relational and the other he describes as instrumental. Relational understanding is related to what we might think of a “deeper” understanding, something that reflects how and why mathematics works and is applied.

When did Richard Skemp write his seminal paper?

In 1976 Richard Skemp published an important discussion paper spelling out the differences between relational and instrumental understanding as they apply to mathematical teaching and learning. His paper discusses matters that are as important and relevant to the practice of teaching mathematics now as they were when he wrote, 34 years ago.

How to use relational understanding and instrumental understanding?

Relational Understanding and Instrumental Understanding. One gets faux amis between English as spoken in different parts of the world. An Englishman asking in America for a biscuit would be given what we call a scone. To get what we call a biscuit, he would have to ask for a cookie.

What are the pros and cons of instrumental understanding?

Skemp discusses the pros and cons of instrumental understanding. He addresses circumstances under which instrumental understanding is more likely to take hold, and what are the strengths of relational understanding. Richard Skemp was trained as a psychologist and was first Professor of Mathematics Education at the University of Warwick in England.