The study of authentic task focused learning process in the maths course: An action research

This research aims to bring up the application process of authentic task focused approach. To unify theory and practice, and improve the instructional applications, the research was designed as an action research. The research was applied for 30 students of 7/A class in mathematics in the spring term of 2014-2015 education year. Measure sampling method was used for selecting the study group. Teaching applications were carried out to all study groups but semi-constructed interviews for six students. Before the application, activities were prepared and applied throughout twelve teaching periods. Afterwards, students were guided by giving authentic tasks to prepare their studies. While presenting their studies, the students used different evaluation methods. The application continued for 7 weeks. The research data were collected with various tools like classical examinations, interview forms, group evaluation and authentic evaluation forms. The analysis of data were done in two ways as qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The frequency and percentage analysis were done in the analysis of quantitative data, whereas quantitative data were analyzed by using the content analysis technique. The results show the learning applications supported with authentic task focused approach have improved students meta-cognitive awareness levels. Furthermore, at the end of the applications, it was understood that the applications increased students' self-confidence and motivations in problem solving and classroom activities. It is that this will help students solve their problems in both school and daily life. When the opinions of test group students were examined, it was seen that students have positive opinions. As a result, findings show that authentic task focused applications have positive effects on obtaining and lasting information. As a result, the findings show that authentic task based learning environment affects learning effectiveness, problem solving and metacognitive awraeness positively. Generally, the students displayed positive approach for application process.