PROCEEDINGS OF THE 21ST ANNUAL CONFERENCE ON RESEARCH IN UNDERGRADUATE MATHEMATICS EDUCATION
2018
San Diego, California
Proof Norms in Introduction to Proof Textbooks
Page: 743
We present a textual analysis of three of the most common introduction to proof (ITP) texts in an effort to explore proof norms as undergraduates are indoctrinated in mathematical practices. We focus on three areas that are emphasized in proof literature: warranting, proof frameworks, and informal instantiations. Each of these constructs have been connected to students’ ability to construct, comprehend, or validate proofs. We carefully coded all the proofs and supplemental material across common sections in the textbooks. We found that the treatment of proof frameworks was inconsistent. We further found that textbook proofs rarely used explicit warranting and informal instantiations. We conclude by reflecting on the impact of inconsistent proof norms and unsubstantial focus on supportive proof components for students in ITP courses.