Assessing What Students Think About Solving Word Problems: The Case of Reversible Reasoning in Students

Although reversible reasoning is an important strategy in solving mathematical word problems, few studies have examined the link between reversible reasoning and word problem solving. The present study therefore aims to examine students’ thought processes in translating statements within word problems by integrating reversible reasoning. A qualitative approach was adopted involving 71 students with diverse backgrounds, genders, educational institutions and achievement levels. A task designed to stimulate reversible reasoning was developed and supporting stimulus questions were formulated. Data were collected through Google Form submissions, think-aloud protocols and interviews. Twelve students who demonstrated indications of reversible reasonin were interviewed to gain in-depth insights. The collected data were analysed using a case study approach comprising three stages: preliminary analysis, open coding and axial coding. Six research themes were identified related to the students’ mental activities in reversing temporal sequences, reversing rate relationships, reversing residual perspectives, reversing variable roles, reversing mathematical operations and reversing rate-time concepts. The findings highlight the importance of designing learning experiences that stimulate mental flexibility, conceptual understanding and metacognition as frameworks for fostering reversible reasoning.