The Difference in Sudoku Puzzle-Solving Ability Between Undergraduates and Postgraduates

Abstract

As Sudoku is sweeping around the world, it seems to be increasingly prevalent that Sudoku can contribute to the cultivation of logical thinking ability. In the study, empirical approach was adopted to investigate differences in Sudoku puzzle-solving ability and metacognitive ability of mathematical problem-solving between undergraduates and postgraduates, and to examine the relationship between Sudoku puzzle-solving ability and metacognitive ability of mathematical problem-solving. All participants in the study were students studying in Beijing Normal University. The results indicate: (a) no difference between undergraduates and postgraduates in solving the same level Sudoku puzzles and metacognitive ability of mathematical problem-solving, and (b) metacognitive ability of mathematical problem-solving having no significant effect on Sudoku puzzle-solving ability. However, the number of Sudoku puzzles participants had ever finished had appreciable impact on Sudoku puzzle-solving.