Example-Based Learning with Multiple Solution Methods: Effects on Learning Processes and Learning Outcomes

Many mathematical problems can be solved by different solution methods. A previous study showed that learning with multiple solutions fosters learning outcomes. However, the number of solution methods and the number of representational codes were confounded. In order to separate the effects of learning with multiple solution methods from those resulting from learning with multiple representations, the present experiment was conducted. The participants (N = 53) learned to solve probability problems in one of three groups (multiple solution methods with multiple representations vs. multiple solution methods sharing one representation vs. uniform solution method). The superiority of learning with multiple solutions could not be replicated; however, the results show that learning with multiple solutions which share one representation is more effective than learning with multiple solutions and multiple representations. Differences in the learning processes are described and discussed.