Which of the following is a desirable teaching-learning practice in the context of Mathematics ?

The correct option is Intuitive understanding of concepts should be encouraged.

Mathematics education aims to build deep conceptual understanding rather than promoting rote memorization or mere algorithmic fluency. Encouraging students to develop an intuitive understanding allows them to explore mathematical ideas, make conjectures, draw connections between different concepts, and construct their own reasoning. This approach fosters critical thinking and a positive attitude toward problem-solving.

Let us analyze why the other options are not desirable teaching-learning practices:

1. Open ended questions should be avoided to prevent confusion: Open-ended questions encourage higher-order thinking, creativity, and multiple approaches to problem-solving. Avoiding them limits creative mathematical thinking.

2. Open book tests should be avoided: Open book assessment strategies help evaluate conceptual understanding, analytical skills, and application of knowledge rather than simple memorization of formulas.

3. Students should be told to follow the prescribed steps of solving problems: Restricting students strictly to fixed, prescribed steps discourages mathematical creativity and flexibility, making them dependent on memorized algorithms rather than understanding the underlying concepts.

Therefore, encouraging an intuitive understanding of concepts is a highly desirable teaching-learning practice in Mathematics.