The Impact of Interdisciplinary Approach and Mathematical Modelling Activities on Mathematics Teaching: A Case Study with Pre-Service Teachers

Abstract

Mathematical modelling is an effective approach that helpsstudents develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts byconnecting mathematics to real-life contexts and to other disciplines.Model Eliciting Activities (MEAs) are student-centred processes inwhich learners use modelling methods to solve complex real-worldproblems. This case study aimed to design interdisciplinary MEAs forpre-service teachers, to evaluate these activities according tomodelling principles, and to examine participants’ views after theimplementation. The data consisted of the developed MEAs, videotranscripts from the implementation process, and audio transcripts ofsemi-structured interviews. Content analysis, descriptive analysis, andrubric-based evaluation were used. The results showed that althoughthe activities did not fully meet all modelling principles, they largelyaligned with them and provided meaningful contributions to pre-service teachers’ learning. Interview findings indicated thatparticipants’ initially general views became more specific over time,and that interdisciplinary modelling activities increased bothmotivation and classroom interaction.