Jounal of Education and Teaching (JET)
Vol 7 No 1 (2026): Januari 2026

Soft Skills and Academic Achievement: The Mediating Effect of Critical Problem-Solving Ability among Mathematics Education Students

Sunismi Sunismi (Mathematics Education Department, Universitas Islam Malang, Indonesia)
Ettie Rukmigarsari (Mathematics Education Department, Universitas Islam Malang, Indonesia)
Sikky El Walida (Mathematics Education Department, Universitas Islam Malang, Indonesia)
Tri Candra Wulandari (Mathematics Education Department, Universitas Islam Malang, Indonesia)
Gusti Firda Khairunnisa (Mathematics Education Department, Universitas Islam Malang, Indonesia)
Yuli Ismi Nahdiyati Ilmi (Mathematics Education Department, Universitas Islam Malang, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
07 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of Critical Problem-Solving Ability (CPSA) in mediating the influence of soft skills on the academic achievement of students enrolled in the Mathematics Education Study Program, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), University of Islam Malang (UNISMA). This research employs a quantitative approach with an explanatory-predictive survey design and path analysis technique using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS4 software. The sample consists of 99 students from the 3rd, 5th, and 7th semesters, selected using a convenient sampling technique. The research instruments include a standardized questionnaire and semester academic index (SAI) documents. The results show that certain soft skills variables, such as Adaptability and Flexibility (ADAF), Effective Communication Skills (ECS), and Independence and Self-Discipline (ISD), have a significant direct effect on CPSA. Additionally, ECS and ADAF also have a direct effect on SAI. CPSA was proven to have a direct effect on SAI and to serve as a significant mediator in the relationship between ADAF and ECS with SAI. However, no significant indirect effects were found from Collaboration and Teamwork Skills (CTS), Emotional Intelligence (EQ), and ISD on SAI through CPSA. 

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jet

Publisher

Subject

Education

Description

Journal of Eduction and Teaching (JET) merupakan jurnal ilmiah Fakultas Keguruan dan Ilmu Pendidikan UM Kendari yang menitik-beratkan pada publikasi hasil penelitian ilmiah yang dilakukan oleh para civitas akademika, baik internal dan eksternal UM Kendari, khususnya dalam bidang pendidikan dan ...