Yvonne Kao, Psychology . (Advisor: John Anderson)

Research project :
Geometry Reasoning and Understanding

Description :
Some would argue that mastery of geometry, particularly facility with spatial representations—points, lines, angles, vectors, and volumes—is critical for mastery of more advanced mathematics. In addition, geometry is often the first course in which students receive explicit instruction in deductive reasoning and formal proof; not only is the proof-writing an important mathematical skill, but deductive reasoning is a necessary skill for other fields as well, including science and philosophy. Unfortunately, U. S. students often struggle with geometry compared to other mathematics content areas and lag behind students internationally. This suggests a need for a body of work geared towards building a cognitive model of geometry understanding and improving geometry instruction.

For my first-year project, I did an fMRI study of geometry proof problem-solving. These data and the data from an ongoing verbal protocol study of the same task will be used to support a process model of geometry proof problem-solving. Future work may incorporate the Geometry Cognitive Tutor as well as classroom interventions.

Interests :
Deductive reasoning, problem-solving, informal learning, public science education, neuroimaging, math and science education policy

Long term goals :
My possible career goals include joining the psychology faculty at a university and developing math and science curriculums for middle school and high school students. However, I am also interested in public science education and may opt to pursue a career in science museum exhibit development.
IES 06 Poster