Contribuições da modelagem matemática para o desenvolvimento de habilidades de resolução de problemas no ensino médio

Abstract

This research investigated the contribution of Mathematical Modeling (MM) to the development of problem-solving skills in high school. Conducted in a public school in Anápolis-GO, using a qualitative approach, the investigation was motivated by the persistent unsatisfactory performance of Brazilian students in external mathematics assessments. Faced with this challenging scenario, MM emerges as a promising approach to teaching Mathematics, promoting the development of crucial skills for citizenship training, especially those related to problem solving. The central objective of the research was to examine how MM influences specific skills, such as identifying problems, formulating or manipulating models, executing mathematical procedures and evaluating solutions. The research involved the application of MM activities to third-year high school students, the results of which were evaluated through questionnaires and interviews. The findings highlighted the contributions of MM in the development of problem-solving skills, in the improved understanding of problem situations in the real world, in the ability to identify and formulate mathematical models, in the development of strategies to solve problems and in the assessment of the validity of solutions through the application of mathematical concepts. Additionally, the results showed the positive influence of MM on students' motivation to engage in Mathematics studies, promoting critical thinking and facilitating the understanding of mathematical concepts. Given these findings, MM emerges as an effective strategy for teaching Mathematics in High School.