An Analysis of the Pedagogical Price of Mathematical Tricks: The Case of Factoring

The Mathematics Enthusiast 2026

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Authors: John E. Beam, Jason Knight Belnap, Eric W. Kuennen, Amy Parrott, Jennifer Earles Szydlik
DOI: 10.54870/1551-3440.1703
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Students are exposed to a variety of mathematical tricks that ostensibly make it easier for them to solve problems. But tricks also undermine their understanding that mathematics is supposed to make sense; they rob students of opportunities to explore and struggle with ideas; and they obscure mathematical structure.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Mathematics Education and Teaching Techniques Mathematics Education and Pedagogy History and Theory of Mathematics

Publication details

Journal / source
The Mathematics Enthusiast
Volume
24
Issue
1
Pages
191–204
Publication date
13 March 2026
Language
EN