Cahaya: Journal of Research on Science Education
Vol. 4 No. 2 (2026)

Analysis of Students’ Problem-Solving Skills and Learning Difficulties in Dynamic Fluid Topics through a Preliminary Study in Physics Education

Azrisa Mutia (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)
Muhammad Minan Chusni (UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung)



Article Info

Publish Date
22 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study examines a fundamental question: how students’ problem-solving skills develop and what difficulties they face in learning fluid dynamics. The research is positioned within physics education, focusing on the importance of conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills.A qualitative descriptive approach was applied using triangulation methods, including diagnostic tests, interviews, and classroom observations. The diagnostic test measured students’ ability to analyze problems and apply concepts, while interviews and observations explored learning difficulties and instructional practices.The results indicate that students’ problem-solving skills are low and mostly procedural. Students tend to rely on memorizing formulas rather than understanding concepts, leading to difficulties in solving contextual problems and relating key variables such as pressure, velocity, and height. Additionally, teacher-centered instruction limits students’ opportunities to think critically and solve problems independently.These findings suggest the need for more interactive and problem-based learning approaches to enhance students’ conceptual understanding and problem-solving skills in physics

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

cahaya

Publisher

Subject

Chemistry Education Physics Social Sciences Other

Description

CAHAYA: Jurnal Ilmu Pendidikan dan Pembelajaran Sains (e-ISSN 2988-1374) is an Open Access Journal that discusses related science and science education that occurs in the context of society at the primary, secondary and higher education levels related to research in the fields of science education, ...