Research Symposium

BIO

My name is Witley Lafrance, and I am from South Florida. I'm a psychology major on the pre-med track. I've developed an interest in the relationship between psychology and medicine. This interest has inspired me to go to medical school and eventually pursue a career that combines my passion for science and my passion to help people

Undefined: How do People Understand the Concept of Zero?

Abstract

This study investigates undergraduates’ knowledge about and confidence with arithmetic involving zero, and their perceptions of various related mathematical arguments. To conduct this research, we interviewed 50 participants recruited through Sona. Each participant answered a demographics survey, then solved arithmetic problems, both with and without zero, and rated their confidence in their solutions. Participants then evaluated various mathematical arguments and completed a Cognitive Reflection Task. Preliminary analyses showed that participants were significantly less accurate and less confident on arithmetic problems involving zero than on those not involving zero. Further analyses will test several preregistered hypotheses regarding relations between arithmetic with zero, cognitive reflection tendencies, and perceptions of arguments. These results may help educators address students’ misconceptions about math involving zero.

Keywords: Math, Cognitive, Zero