Multiple representation skills and creativity effects on mathematical problem solving using a multimedia whiteboard system

The aim of this study is to explore student multiple representation skills and creativity in solving mathematical problems when supported by a multimedia whiteboard system. The subjects were 6(th) grade primary school students that were tested and selected as excellent students in mathematics. Twenty-one numerical and geometry problems were given to the students in the experiment. The learning activities including problem solving, peer criticizing and response improvement facilitated by the designed multimedia whiteboard system. The findings of this study are that student multiple representation skills are the keys to successful mathematical problem solving. Students with high elaboration ability can take better advantage from peer interactions and teacher guidance to generate more diversified ideas and solutions in mathematical problem solving. In contrast, students with low elaboration ability would have great difficulty in representation skills. We conclude that elaboration ability in creativity is a critical factor that affects student's multiple representation skills. The study suggests that teachers could design mathematical problem solving activities supported by a multimedia whiteboard system to improve student multiple representation skills.