Abstract

The purpose of this study is to demonstrate how mathematical problem solving and self-regulated learning are two important and interrelated concepts in mathematics education, and how they contribute to effective mathematics learning. Particularly, the study starts with a theoretical background about what self-regulation is, and how it promotes success in academic learning. Then, a brief review is given about the nature of mathematical problem solving and its importance in mathematics education. After that, a discussion is made about how self-regulatory processes are related to mathematical problem solving. Finally, a number of recent research studies are summarized to illustrate this relation, and several suggestions are made for instructional practice.