Mathematical Problem Solving

by Alan H. Schoenfeld

Scanned image of the book.

Genres: Mathematics, Nonfiction, Science, Textbooks

409 pages, Paperback

First published August 26, 1997

Reviews

[Gordon Wang · Rating 5 out of 5]

A serious book written by a well-known mathematics education researcher. I reaped multiple benefits from reading this book: First, it provides well-drawn picture about what factors influence the process and outcome of people's problem solving. And how these factors intertwine together. Second, it serves as a perfect example of digging information from messy data. The latter is especially valuable for novice researchers. Last, it makes me understand that math literature can also be presented in a humorous tone.

[Arun · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the very few books on problem solving (especially for mathematics). Learn't a lot from the first half of the book which provides the theoretical grounding/framework on improving problem solving. I have been wanting to practice solving historical math olympiad problems and this guide will be invaluable for it. It even has a chapter on Heuristics inspired by Polya's How to Solve It.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting experiment in how individuals (from students to math professors) use heuristics to solve problems. Taught me a lot about how people handicap themselves and changed how I approach many new problems. I always wished there was further material by Schoenfeld on this topic.

[Mikkel Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good introduction to research in mathematical problem solving. Should be read by anyone with a seriouse interest in mathematical problem solving.