MODELIZACIÓN DE FUNCIONES CUADRÁTICAS PARA POTENCIAR EL APRENDIZAJE SIGNIFICATIVO: UNA EXPERIENCIA CON ESTUDIANTES DE BACHILLERATO

Abstract

Mathematical modeling allows connecting this science with the real world using mathematical structures that can analyze, understand and predict the behavior of the situation being modeled. The main objective of this research is to analyze the impact of mathematical modeling on the learning of quadratic functions with high school students between 17 and 18 years old. This study is based on the need to incorporate innovative methodologies in mathematics teaching in Ecuador, where mathematical modeling has not yet been widely implemented in classrooms. To achieve this, a mathematical modeling activity was designed and applied based on the theoretical framework of meaningful learning. This activity was carried out in two stages: first, a pre-test was conducted to analyze the mastery of skills related to mathematical modeling, and later a post-test was implemented after working with the students in two class sessions, each lasting two hours. The data obtained was collected and compared using a quantitative approach in both instances, and the results demonstrated the effectiveness of mathematical modeling as a didactic strategy and its influence on the construction of meaningful learning. It is recommended to enhance the teaching of mathematical modeling to high school students to strengthen the understanding of mathematical structures and their relationship with the environment.