Share Paper: Using statistical software to map a university instructor’s perceptions of teaching algebra

  1. Terri L. Kurz, Arizona State University, United States
  2. Kelly Jackson, University of Arizona, United States
  3. Pamela J. Harris, Arizona State University, United States
Friday, April 2 11:30-11:45 AM Room 3

Abstract: Understanding how people think can be difficult to measure as there are challenges in documenting perceptions regarding perceived relationships among concepts. However, Personal Construct Theory (Kelly, 1955) can be used to explore thinking. Using the statistical software SPSS, a university instructor’s perceptions of teaching algebra were mapped using hierarchical clusters. A framework is provided to show how the software can be utilized for this task. The results of exploring an instructor’s perceptions are shown and interpreted. This presentation provides guidance on the use of SPSS to map perceptions through the lens of a single case.