Mathematical Modeling: An Important Concept in Mathematics Education

Abstract

The purpose of this article was to demonstrate the essence and relevance of mathematical modeling as an important classroom practice that promote mathematical proficiency in mathematics education for all students. Research have shown that mathematical modeling education play a major role in everyday teaching and learning of mathematics. Additionally, mathematical modeling encourages the development of mathematical practices, processes, and skills useful for today’s world. Furthermore, research indicates that students can make significant mathematical and socio-cultural improvements in mathematics when exposed to mathematical modeling. However, mathematical modeling proficiencies and competencies have been under emphasized in most K–12 schools in the United Sates. This article therefore investigated the role of mathematical modeling and how to implement modeling practices in mathematics education. Strategies for teaching modeling and examples of authentic modeling tasks are illustrated in this article to highlight the relevance and importance of mathematical modeling. It is argued that mathematical modeling education is a powerful tool for developing students’ quantitative reasoning, productive disposition, problem-solving skills, and modeling competencies.

Keywords: mathematical modeling; mathematics education; modeling practices; modeling process; modeling task; models; problem-solving