• Journal of Elementary Mathematics Education in Korea
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• v.17 no.1
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• pp.67-86
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• 2013

The purpose of this study is to analyze selection of factors of Schoenfeld's problem solving behavior shown in problem solving process of mathematically gifted students based on brain preference of the students and to present suggestions related to hemispheric lateralization that should be considered in teaching such students. The conclusions based on the research questions are as follows. First, as for problem solving methods of the students in the Gifted Education Center based on brain preference, the students of left brain preference showed more characteristics of the left brain such as preferring general, logical decision, while the students of right brain preference showed more characteristics of the right brain such as preferring subjective, intuitive decision, indicating that there were differences based on brain preference. Second, in the factors of Schoenfeld's problem solving behavior, the students of left brain preference mainly showed factors including standardized procedures such as algorithm, logical and systematical process, and deliberation, while the students of right brain preference mainly showed factors including informal and intuitive knowledge, drawing for understanding problem situation, and overall examination of problem-solving process. Thus, the two types of students were different in selecting the factors of Schoenfeld's problem solving behavior based on the characteristics of their brain preference. Finally, based on the results showing that the factors of Schoenfeld's problem solving behavior were differently selected by brain preference, it may be suggested that teaching problem solving and feedback can be improved when presenting the factors of Schoenfeld's problem solving behavior selected more by students of left brain preference to students of right brain preference and vice versa.