The Illusion of Linearity
de Bock, Dirk / van Dooren, Wim / Janssens, Dirk / Verschaffel, Lieven Linear or proportional relationships are a major topic in mathematics education. However, recent research has shown that secondary school students have a strong tendency to apply the linear model also in situations wherein it is not applicable. This overgeneralization of linearity is sometimes referred to as the "illusion of linearity" and has a strong negative impact on students’ reasoning and problem solving skills.
"The Illusion of Linearit...