Problem fields in mathematics teaching. Part 3, Views of Finnish seventh-grades about mathematics teaching

s:1073:"This study was conducted to examine the views of seventh-grade students in Finland with regard to the teaching and learning of mathematics. Data were gathered by a questionnaire survey, with follow-up interviews to validate response reliability. Fifty junior high school mathematics teachers in southern Finland were asked to present the questionnaire to their classes in order to get student response. Questionnaires were returned by 34 teachers; 514 students completed the questions. Results of percentage tables suggest that pupils have a pragmatic, calculation-centered, task-oriented view of mathematics; they emphasize process more than product; they stress rigorous working procedures and learning through practice; and they favor pupil-centered activities and small group learning. Students also expect the teacher to give them help and direction along with learning games. Five appendices include a copy of the student questionnaire and tabular responses to structured and open-ended questions, and responses to structured questions. (Contains 49 references.) (LL)";