Exploring the understanding of the number pi: A case of pre-service secondary school mathematics teachers at a selected institution of higher learning in Namibia

Abstract

Pi (π) plays a crucial role in circle geometry as well as other areas of Mathematics and Science. Despite the role it plays, its meaning and significance in Mathematics and Science is often underscored. Most of the high school leavers use this number but they are not aware of what it means and its significance in Mathematics and Science. Many learners in the Namibian high schools are aware of the existence of pi; however they do not really know what it means. This study was therefore deemed necessary in the light of emphasizing deep learning of Mathematics as opposed to the rote learning that is based on the traditional education among first year secondary school pre-service teachers of Mathematics. In this paper the researchers assessed the understanding of pi among the first year secondary school pre-service teachers of Mathematics on their Mathematical experiences of pi. Furthermore, the researchers also sought to relate the understanding of pi among pre-service first year secondary school pre-service teachers of Mathematics to their academic performance in circle geometry.