The effectiveness of the 4mat teaching model upon student achievement and attitude levels

Abstract

4MAT is an 8-step, sequential instructional model based on two theoretical constructs: Kolb's model of learning styles and the concept of brain hemisphericity. The model, developed by B. McCarthy (1987) is derived by interacting each of Kolb's four quadrants with both left and right brain. The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of the 4MAT teaching model which depends on learning styles that have been generated by the help of the relationship between the brain and learning; and focuses on the learning loop as a centre upon students’ level of mathematics course achievement; and the level of attitudes towards mathematics in the unit of the Hoop and Circle. An experimental pattern model with a pre-test, post-test control group has been used in this research. The sample of this study comprised 81 students from the 7th grade at Public School in Balıkesir during the 2009-2010 education periods. It has been determined that 4MAT method of instruction was more efficient than the traditional method.