The Effects of Visual Representations When Problem Solving

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of visual representations while problem solving would increase student’s achievement. The participants in this study consisted of eight, fourth grade students, who were selected based on their low achievement on a pre-assessment. The participants participated in a 30-minute, supplemental instruction group two days a week for ten weeks. During this time, participants were introduced to two types of visual representations, bar models and diagrams. Participants were given the opportunity to apply these representations to different types of word problems. The results revealed a significant increase in mean math scored for the pre to the post-test. The results of the post-assessment suggest the use of visual representations have a positive effect on student’s problem-solving achievement.