Journal of Advanced Sciences and Mathematics Education
Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026): Journal of Advanced Sciences and Mathematics Education

Meaningful learning to enhance conceptual understanding, engagement, and mathematical reasoning in elementary statistics education

Ema Butsi Prihastari (Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia)
Wardono (Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia)
Scolastika Mariani (Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia)
Masrukan (Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 May 2026

Abstract

Background: Elementary school statistics education faces challenges due to students’ low conceptual understanding, often resulting from abstract and procedural teaching methods. Aims: This study aimed to examine the implementation of meaningful learning in elementary statistics, assess its effects on students’ conceptual understanding and engagement, and identify supporting and inhibiting factors. Method: A mixed-method explanatory sequential design was employed. Quantitative data were collected through perception questionnaires from 60 fifth-grade students, while qualitative data were obtained via participatory observations, semi-structured interviews, and classroom documentation involving one teacher and 15 students in a purposively selected class. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model. Results: Meaningful learning positively influenced statistics education. Mean scores were 3.42 for conceptual understanding (SD=0.51), 3.67 for material relevance (SD=0.48), 3.38 for motivation (SD=0.55), 3.25 for engagement (SD=0.62), and 3.35 for satisfaction (SD=0.58). All students (100%) agreed that the material was relevant to real-life contexts. Mini-project activities, such as the “Our Body Statistics” project, enhanced active participation. Supporting factors included teacher creativity, student enthusiasm, and a supportive learning environment; inhibiting factors included time constraints, varied student readiness, and limited contextual resources. Conclusion: Implementing meaningful learning improves conceptual understanding and engagement in elementary statistics. Contextual, experience-based approaches should be expanded with adequate teacher training and time allocation to optimize learning outcomes.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jasme

Publisher

Subject

Chemistry Education Mathematics Physics Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Advanced Sciences and Mathematics Education [e-ISSN: 2798-1606] is a journal published by the Foundation of Advanced Education. Journal of Advanced Science and Mathematics Education is a communication medium used by researchers, lecturers, teachers, practitioners, and students to convey ...