The influence of students’ concept of mole, problem representation ability and mathematical ability on stoichiometry problem solving

Taha, Hafsah and Hashim, Rosnani and Ismail, Zurida and Jusoff, Kamaruzaman and Khoo, Yin Yin (2014) The influence of students’ concept of mole, problem representation ability and mathematical ability on stoichiometry problem solving. Scottish Journal of Arts, Social Sciences and Scientific Studies, 21 (1). pp. 3-21. ISSN 2047-1278

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Abstract

Students’ success in stoichiometry problem solving depends mainly on their understanding of the concept of mole and conceptual understanding of the problems. The challenge of enhancing students’ performance in solving stoichiometry problems remain a daunting task as many resort to just teaching how solve stoichiometry problems algorithmically. Two purposes of this study are: first, identifying the major factors influencing students’ performance in stoichiometry problem solving and second, investigating problems faced by students and teachers in stoichiometry learning and teaching in the classroom. A mixed method research design was employed in this study which involved a test and interview protocols. To conclude, students’ understanding of the concept of mole and their problem representation ability are significant predictors, however mathematical ability is not a significant factor in determining students’ success in solving the problems. Students have difficulties in ‘making sense’ of the chemical reaction itself. This implies teachers should not practice the ‘short cut’ approach in the entirety. Students ought to be exposed and guided to understand the underlying conceptual foundation of stoichiometry before introducing the algorithmic way of solving the problems. Keywords: stoichiometry problem solving; mole concept; problem representation ability; mathematical ability

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Additional Information:	593/42187
Uncontrolled Keywords:	stoichiometry problem solving; mole concept; problem representation ability; mathematical ability
Subjects:	L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1025 Teaching (principles and practices) L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1603 Secondary Education. High schools L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB1705 Education and training of teachers
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Education
Depositing User:	Professor Rosnani Hashim
Date Deposited:	25 Feb 2015 08:09
Last Modified:	19 Jun 2018 14:57
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/42187

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