RUME 28
2026
Alexandria, Virginia
Conceptions of Derivatives in Calculus: Merging and Extending Earlier Frameworks
Page: 798
Researchers studying derivative conceptions often use Zandieh’s (2000) framework, which emphasizes graphical, symbolic, verbal, and physical representations within three process-object layers of ratio, limit, and function. While foundational and aligned with traditional calculus instruction, recent literature on derivative teaching reveals additional conceptions. I present the Conceptions of Derivative (CoD) framework, which expands Zandieh’s work to offer a more comprehensive perspective on contextual and cognitive processes when thinking about derivatives. The framework provides researchers with a comprehensive lens, while offering instructors awareness and language for intentional targeting of derivative conceptions based on their students’ conceptual needs.