Richard R. Skemp

British mathematics educator and psychologist known for influential work on the psychology of learning mathematics, particularly the distinction between relational and instrumental understanding; author of The Psychology of Learning Mathematics.

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Psychology Of Learning Mathematics

    A concise examination of how people learn mathematics that distinguishes instrumental understanding—learning rules and procedures without grasping reasons—from relational understanding, which involves grasping meanings and connections; it argues teachers should aim for relational understanding to support transfer, adaptability, and problem solving. The book analyzes cognitive processes and development involved in acquiring mathematical knowledge, identifies common misconceptions and barriers to learning, and discusses the roles of representation, context and practice in forming robust mental structures. Practical implications for curriculum, instruction and assessment are offered, emphasizing meaningful tasks, clear conceptual explanations, and opportunities for learners to make connections and construct their own mathematical understanding.

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