PRISMA
Vol. 15 No. 1 (2026): PRISMA

An Analysis of Students' Pseudo-Thinking Processes in Solving Algebra Problems from The Perspective of Self-Confidence

Nur Rahma (Universitas Tadulako)
Mubarik (Universitas Tadulako)
Fajriani (Universitas Tadulako)
Pathuddin (Universitas Tadulako)



Article Info

Publish Date
04 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study aims to describe the pseudo-thinking processes of eighth-grade junior high school students in solving algebra problems, as viewed from the perspectives of high, moderate, and low levels of self-confidence. This study was conducted in the eighth grade at SMP Negeri 7 Palu during the 2025/2026 school year. A total of 3 students were selected from a group of 29 students. This research method uses a qualitative approach of a descriptive nature.The researcher employed a self-confidence questionnaire, an algebraic problem-solving test, and interviews. The results indicate that students have high self-confidence in their ability to solve problems correctly and follow problem-solving steps; however, they still struggle to explain their reasoning conceptually, suggesting that their thinking is pseudo-correct. Students with moderate self-confidence are able to solve problems fairly well, but they still make mistakes in their approach and conceptual understanding, so they tend to engage in pseudo-correct thinking, although not to the same extent as students with high self-confidence. Students with low self-confidence tend to have difficulty understanding and solving problems, leading them to give incorrect answers; however, they are able to correct their mistakes after reflecting on them, thus demonstrating pseudo-errors.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

prisma

Publisher

Subject

Mathematics Social Sciences

Description

This journal focuses on mathematics education and disciplined inquiry into the teaching and learning of mathematics. The scope of the journal are: Mathematics Learning Model, Media Learning Mathematics, Curriculum in Mathematics Teaching, Assessment and Evaluation in Mathematics Teaching, ...