Indonesian Journal on Learning and Advanced Education (IJOLAE)
Vol. 7, No. 1, January 2025

Understanding High School Students’ Errors in solving Mathematics Problems: A Phenomenological Research

Ahmad Naufal Aljura (Faculty of Mathematics and Science, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta)
Heri Retnawati (Faculty of Mathematics and Science, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta)
Hutkemri Zulnaidi (Faculty of Education, University of Malaya)
Vianney Mbazumutima (Faculty of Natural Sciences, École Normale Supérieure du Burundi)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jan 2025

Abstract

This research aims to understand a phenomenon regarding high school students’ errors in solving mathematics problems using a qualitative approach with phenomenology as the analysis framework. Data were collected through tests, classroom observations, documentation (students’ answer sheets, list of attendees, and students’ score lists), and unstructured phenomenological interviews with four purposively selected participants who met the selection criteria. The researchers used the mathematical problem-solving (MPS) model by Rott-Specht-Knipping and Aguas’ phenomenological data analysis steps using the NVIVO 12 software to analyze the students’ MPS process and identify their errors and the factors contributing to these errors. Errors were predominantly found in problems solved without engaging in the exploration phase. Analysis errors were the most common, while errors due to carelessness were the rarest. Factors contributing to these errors were identified across five domains: MPS Ability (MPSA), cognition, affection, motivation, and self-awareness. This research provides valuable insights into student errors in MPS for researchers and educators, particularly teachers, and provides recommendations for mathematics education policies and future research.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijolae

Publisher

Subject

Education Environmental Science Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences Other

Description

Indonesian Journal on Learning and Advanced Education (IJOLAE) aims to promote creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship in education in order to face global challenges such as education in the disruption era, internet of things in education, child-friendly education, HOTS-based education, STEAM ...