ERIC Number: EJ1487293
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Dec
Pages: N/A
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1040-726X
EISSN: EISSN-1573-336X
Available Date: 2025-09-24
Toward an Integrated Model of the Individual Differences in Mathematical Flexibility
Xiantong Yang1,2,3; Jon R. Star3; Ru-De Liu2; Yi Yang2
Educational Psychology Review, v37 n4 Article 95 2025
Existing research has revealed key factors influencing mathematical flexibility, defined as the capacity to understand, generate, and apply a variety of strategies in solving mathematical problems. However, there is currently a lack of an integrated theoretical framework to systematically consolidate various sources of individual differences in mathematical flexibility. This issue impedes researchers' comprehensive understanding of the myriad factors influencing mathematical flexibility and weakens educators' ability to effectively intervene in students' learning. To address these challenges, we conducted a systematic review of various sources contributing to individual differences in mathematical flexibility, based on existing empirical research. We analyzed different explanations for mathematical flexibility differences in five aspects: demographic, cognitive, metacognitive, motivational, and emotional, leading to the development of the Individual Differences Model of Mathematical Flexibility (ID Model). Building on research gaps identified in this model, we further revealed potential new directions for future research. This study provides a valuable framework for mathematics education researchers to extend their theoretical research and offers novice instructors the opportunity to adapt practices for enhancing students' mathematical flexibility.
Descriptors: Individual Differences, Mathematics Skills, Problem Solving, Demography, Cognitive Processes, Metacognition, Psychological Patterns, Models, Cognitive Ability
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Information Analyses
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Researchers; Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1Fujian Normal University, School of Psychology, Fuzhou, China; 2Beijing Normal University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Applied Experimental Psychology, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Psychology Education (Beijing Normal University), Faculty of Psychology, Beijing, China; 3Harvard University, Graduate School of Education, Cambridge, USA

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