Preservice Teachers' Knowledge of Math Modeling: Initial Scale Development and Validation

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Preservice Teachers' Knowledge of Math Modeling: Initial Scale Development and Validation
Language: English
Authors: Reuben S. Asempapa, Doris Lee
Source: Discover Education. 2025 4.
Availability: Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link.springer.com/
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 14
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Preservice Teachers, Preservice Teacher Education, Mathematics Education, Mathematics Curriculum, Mathematics Instruction, Mathematics Skills, Mathematical Models, Test Construction, Test Validity, Test Reliability, Scoring, Teacher Education Programs
DOI: 10.1007/s44217-025-00458-x
ISSN: 2731-5525
Abstract: Across the world, standards and practices for preparing teachers of mathematics emphasize the importance of math modeling (MM) in developing students' mathematical thinking. The aim of this research study was to develop the Mathematical Modeling Knowledge Scale (MAMKS), capable of determining preservice teachers' (PSTs') knowledge of MM. The study participants consisted of 100 PSTs from a Midwestern state university in the United States. The participants were between the ages of 18-25 and had experience with some form of MM. Using a variety of sources, we developed the MAMKS that included several items with a 6-point Likert response category. Through expert interviews, item analysis, reliability analysis, and factor analysis, the MAMKS was refined to an 8-item version. The 8-item scale exhibited sound psychometric properties, with a moderately high and acceptable reliability ([alpha] = 0.83) for a one-factor structure. The one-dimensional structure from the factor analysis explained 42% of the variation. Additionally, item analysis showed the items were useful and could discriminate among the respondents. Furthermore, the confirmatory factor analysis validated the scale's factor structure. Therefore, we present a reliable and psychometrically acceptable scale to measure PSTs' knowledge of MM with broad applicability and implications for teacher education programs and researchers.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1463798
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:Across the world, standards and practices for preparing teachers of mathematics emphasize the importance of math modeling (MM) in developing students' mathematical thinking. The aim of this research study was to develop the Mathematical Modeling Knowledge Scale (MAMKS), capable of determining preservice teachers' (PSTs') knowledge of MM. The study participants consisted of 100 PSTs from a Midwestern state university in the United States. The participants were between the ages of 18-25 and had experience with some form of MM. Using a variety of sources, we developed the MAMKS that included several items with a 6-point Likert response category. Through expert interviews, item analysis, reliability analysis, and factor analysis, the MAMKS was refined to an 8-item version. The 8-item scale exhibited sound psychometric properties, with a moderately high and acceptable reliability ([alpha] = 0.83) for a one-factor structure. The one-dimensional structure from the factor analysis explained 42% of the variation. Additionally, item analysis showed the items were useful and could discriminate among the respondents. Furthermore, the confirmatory factor analysis validated the scale's factor structure. Therefore, we present a reliable and psychometrically acceptable scale to measure PSTs' knowledge of MM with broad applicability and implications for teacher education programs and researchers.
ISSN:2731-5525
DOI:10.1007/s44217-025-00458-x