Different ways of experiencing linear equations with a multiplicative structure

Paper in proceeding, 2022

Learning to solve linear equations of the form a=b∙x with decimal fractions as coefficients is relevant to all secondary school students and especially for students in vocational education, as it can be significant for their future profession (e.g., Ohm’s law). This study reports on students’ different ways of experiencing equations depending on whether whole numbers or decimal fractions are used. In semi-structured interviews, students displayed an uncertainty towards equations containing decimal fractions and did not address them with the same powerful method as they used for equations with whole numbers, even though they had access to a calculator. The findings emphasize the importance of using different kinds of numbers when teaching equation solving.