Variation of student engagement between different algebra tasks

Abstract

In this study, we analyse how 7th grade students’ engagement during small group work differed in two consecutive algebra lessons: in the first lesson students solved equa-tions and in the second lesson they created equations for other small groups to solve. Data was collected by videorecording the work of two groups in both lessons. Through directed content analysis, categories indicating student engagement were formed based on previous research and refined during analysis. The analysis revealed a change from individual engagement to collaborative engagement between lessons and an increase in many passive students’ engagement. Task characteristics which may affect the type and amount of engagement are discussed.