Volume 10

V10 N5 Pages 49-60

October 2012


Problem Solving Frameworks for Mathematics and Software Development


Kirby McMaster
Fort Lewis College
Durango, CO 81301, USA

Samuel Sambasivam
Azusa Pacific University
Azusa, CA 91702, USA

Ashley Blake
Scribblin' Sisters
Houston, TX  77094, USA

Abstract: In this research, we examine how problem solving frameworks differ between Mathematics and Software Development. Our methodology is based on the assumption that the words used frequently in a book indicate the mental framework of the author. We compared word frequencies in a sample of 139 books that discuss problem solving. The books were grouped into three categories: Traditional Math, Applied Math, and Software Development. We obtained a list of the most frequent words in each category, and used these lists to describe three problem solving frameworks. Applied Math uses models and algorithms to solve problems. Traditional Math is more concerned with proving theorems. In the Software Development framework, customers provide the problem, and models and algorithms are used to create a software solution. Our findings have relevance in the development of approaches for teaching problem solving in Mathematics and Software Development courses.

Keywords: algorithm, Framework, model, problem, Software, solution, mathematics

Download this article: ISEDJ - V10 N5 Page 49.pdf


Recommended Citation: McMaster, K., Sambasivam, S., Blake, A. (2012). Problem Solving Frameworks for Mathematics and Software Development . Information Systems Education Journal, 10(5) pp 49-60. http://isedj.org/2012-10/ ISSN: 1545-679X. (A preliminary version appears in The Proceedings of ISECON 2011)