Journal of Mathematical Pedagogy (JOMP)
Vol. 6 No. 2: July 2025

Pre-service Teachers’ Perception of the Benefits of Problem-solving and Strategies Used to Solve Mathematical Problems: A Case from some Colleges of Education in Ghana

Gyampoh, Samuel Amoh (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
12 Aug 2025

Abstract

The quality of pre-service mathematics teacher education depends greatly on their understanding of mathematical problem-solving and its pedagogy. This study investigates pre-service teachers’ perceptions of the benefits of problem-solving in mathematics and the strategies they employ to solve problems. A qualitative design was adopted, involving 30 randomly selected participants from three Colleges of Education in Ghana. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. Findings reveal that participants possess substantial knowledge of the benefits of problem-solving, including developing critical thinking and understanding, fostering intellectual challenge, enhancing real-life application skills, achieving set goals, overcoming difficulties, and selecting appropriate strategies. The study also highlights the range of strategies used by pre-service teachers, such as visual representation, logical reasoning, and varied heuristic approaches. These insights underscore the need to strengthen problem-solving pedagogy in teacher preparation programs to enhance both mathematical understanding and teaching practice.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JOMP

Publisher

Subject

Education Mathematics Social Sciences Other

Description

The aim of the Journal of Mathematical Pedagogy (JOMP) is to provide an international forum for the sharing, dissemination and discussion of research, experience and perspectives across a wide range of education, teaching, development, instruction, educational projects and innovations, learning ...