University students’ understanding of exponential and logarithmic concepts: in case of real-world situations

Overview & Synopsis

Understanding a mathematical concept in real-world situations is of practical importance. One potential way to help students learn mathematical concepts in real-world situations would be to engage them with contextual problems. Most students have a procedural understanding of exponential and logarithmic concepts and their interpretation in real-world situations has less attention. We examined students’ understanding in designing contextual problems for exponential and logarithmic statements. The process included an initial interview, implementing a set of activities, and an exit interview. The results of the initial interview showed that the students did not have any understanding of these concepts in real-world situations. However, the class activities helped them to develop their knowledge. We report characteristics of students' understanding that would be productive in teaching and learning exponential and logarithmic topics through contextual problems.