Answer to Question #272458 in Math for Sam

Question

Discuss the differences between the Reflective thinking, relational and instrumental understanding in Mathematics

Answer 1

Reflective thinking means taking the bigger picture and understanding all of its consequences. It doesn't mean that you're just going to simply write down your future plans or what you've done in the past. It means truly trying to understand why you did what you did, and why that's important.

Instrumental understanding is when you are able to use the mathematical rule or concept but do not really have the knowledge behind the concept/rule to apply it in other situations, the method is more a “habit” understanding whereas relational understanding is when you are able to use, apply and manipulate the rule or concept and you know why you use the particular method. Relational understanding allows people to have a more reflective attitude to learning and allows for more exploration to occur.