THE EFFECT OF REALISTIC MATHEMATICS EDUCATION ON STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTAND STUDENT OPINIONS TOWARDS INSTRUCTION

This study in which the effect of Realistic Mathematics Education on teaching "Measures of Surface and Volumes" unit and studentsʹ opinions were searched and mixed searching method consisted of empirical method with control group by using pre-post test and qualitative data was used. Study was carried out in 2007-2008 academic year and seventy four 8 grade students were participated. Instruction was conducted in experimental group (38 students) based on realistic mathematics education and in control group (36 students) with using the traditional method. Data were obtained via equivalence test, mathematical achievement test and semi-structured interviews composed of open-ended questions. Quantitative data were examined with t-test and qualitative data were examined descriptive analysis. As a result of the findings from the study, instruction based on realistic mathematics education was more effective than instruction with traditional method and realistic mathematics education was found to be supported by student opinions.