1. Definition

The Special Issue on Math Education and Problem solving intends to be a contribution for the research community and for teachers in general, sheding light into the approach to mathematical problem solving at all grade levels.

2. Introduction or History 

The special issue includes studies of different nature with different participants, students from all grade levels and future teachers, that focus on the importance of mathematical problem solving and problem posing. Problem solving still is as a central goal of mathematics learning in the twenty-first century; it will eventually be necessary in the lives of all citizens, and its approach must be rethought in the classroom. This fact results from the growing demand for future professionals to develop higher order skills. This change coincides with the objective that all students have access to an education that emphasizes creativity, innovation and problem solving. More recently, several researchers acknowledge that little progress was made in research about problem solving. Research in the area has diminished over the past 30 years and the existing research is not cumulative for the lack of a theoretical basis and because the field of mathematics education has been fluctuating between a curricular emphasis on problem solving and basic facts. Also  problem solving cannot be a separate topic and its’ study has to happen in the context of learning mathematics. This arises the need for further research about problem solving in mathematics education.

3. Data, Model, Applications or Influences

The results from quantitative and qualitative studies presented in this special issue help understand some key actions and options concerning teaching practices at all grade levels and on teacher training.