What Criteria for StudentInvented Algorithms?

By : Abdul R Tambunan

Introduction
Algorithms are a part of mathematics; they are necessary and useful. Therefore, we are suggested that there should be criteria by which student-invented algorithms can be evaluated and found as acceptable as the traditional ones and that this process will enhance students learning.

Fostering Student-Generated Algorithms In The Classroom

WHY ?
question ooo.

Their understanding was revealed as they discussed their strategies and interacted with their classmates

Problem
52 52 52

How to divide fairly the candies ?

Yolandas Procedure
Four children had three bags of M&M candies. They opened all three bags and shared the candies fairly. There were 52 candies in each bag. How many M&M candies did each child get

Start

Next Confused . I have an idea.

I couldnt remember the procedure !

One Child

Mathematical Criteria For Assessing Students Algorithms

Efficient Mathematically Valid

Generalizable

Efficient Procedures
is the easiest of the three criteria to apply. The procedure is by recording the students mathematical thinking. It is focused on the more efficient procedure to remember the steps.

Mathematically Valid Procedures

Denniss Subtraction Tyrones Division

Dennis's Subtraction

Mathematically Valid

Tyrones Division

Mathematically Valid

Generalizable Procedures

Denniss Subtraction

Tyrones Division

Denniss Algorithm
700 minus 300 is 400

3 from 5 70 2is 60 10 from is

Tyrones Algorithm

6 divided by 13 is 6/13
30 divided by 13 is 30/13 (2 and 4/13) 100 divided by 13 is 100/13 (7 and 9/13)

Students As Mathematicians
Student should be involved in deciding on the validity, efficiency, and generalizability of their own algorithms and those of their classmates. Work of mathematicians
Intriguing Rewarding Stimulating

Thanks