University student's valuation of mathematical competences for problem solving

Abstract

This research has evaluated the mathematical competences for problem solving of university students. It was a quantitative study from a descriptive design where a questionnaire was supplied on the mathematical competences for problem solving to 876 male and female students of the University of the Autonomous Regions of the Nicaraguan Caribbean Coast (URACCAN). The results confirmed that mathematical competences for solving problems are associated with the mathematical processes of thinking and reasoning, arguing and justifying, communicating, representing, modeling, posing and solving problems; It has been observed that both men and women have the same ability to solve mathematical problems; the statistically sig- nificant differences are related to the ethnic variable in favor of the Miskitu people, followed by the Creoles and mestizos, and with minor differences the Mayangnas. It is concluded through this study, that the mathematical competences for the resolution of problems can contribute in the students learning and in the teaching practice of professors in higher education.