Comparison of the Effectiveness of Realistic Mathematics Approach and Inquiry Approach in Improving Creative Thinking Ability and Problem-Solving Skills

Farida, Elna (Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram)
Syaharuddin, Syaharuddin (Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram)
Mandailina, Vera (Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram)
Abdillah, Abdillah (Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram)

Formatif: Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan MIPA
Vol 15, No 1 (2025): Formatif: Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan MIPA

This quantitative research examines the effectiveness of Realistic Mathematical Education (RME) and Inquiry-Based Learning approaches in enhancing students' creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. A Two two-group pretest-posttest design was used, involving 22 students in the RME group and 20 students in the Inquiry group. Data collection involved questionnaires and written tests. Descriptive analysis and independent sample t-tests were applied to analyse the data. The independent sample t-test for the questionnaire revealed a significant difference between the groups, indicating a higher score for the RME group. The findings indicate that RME is more effective in improving both creative thinking and problem-solving skills, showing smaller variations and better consistency, suggesting that RME may be a more suitable approach for teaching mathematics.