Methodology for the Analysis of Emotion Experiences during Mathematical Problem Solving.

A theoretical model and methodology is presented that allows the path or trajectory of an individual's emotional experience during problem solving to be depicted and empirically studied. The trajectory of one's emotional experience reveals how well the individual copes with the frustration of problem solving by indicating how quickly recovery takes place. The methodology described here offers a way to empirically test and validate theories that may help shift students away from excessive negative emotional experiences during problem solving. Mandler's model of emotion, which forms the foundation of the methodology, is discussed in terms of emotion dynamics during problem solving. Contains 26 references. (Author)