Union: Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan Matematika
Vol 14 No 2 (2026)

Analysis of mathematical problem-solving processes of Islamic religious education students on zakat material with low numeracy literacy

Chintia Putri Wulandari (Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi)
Lovi Leoni (Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi)
Elya Yudiasfira (Universitas Islam Negeri (UIN) Sulthan Thaha Saifuddin Jambi)
Shahzadi Hina Sain (Beaconhouse National University)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Jul 2026

Abstract

This study examines the mathematical problem-solving processes of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) students in solving zakat-related problems from the perspective of low numeracy literacy. Numeracy literacy is essential because it enables students to interpret quantitative information and apply mathematical reasoning in religious contexts such as zakat, which requires both conceptual understanding and accurate calculation. However, many IRE students experience difficulties in solving zakat problems, particularly at low levels of numeracy literacy. This research employed a descriptive qualitative design involving 29 IRE students, one of whom, a student with low numeracy literacy, was selected for in-depth analysis. Data were collected through written tests, observations, and semi-structured interviews, and analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, with triangulation applied across the data sources. The findings reveal that students with low numeracy literacy tend to approach problems mechanically by directly applying the 2.5% zakat rule without adequately understanding the context, interpreting data, or constructing appropriate mathematical models. Their problem-solving processes show weaknesses across all stages, including limited planning, inaccurate modeling, and a lack of evaluation and reflection. These results indicate that low numeracy literacy affects not only the accuracy of solutions but also the overall thinking process. Therefore, integrating mathematical modeling, structured problem-solving stages, and reflective evaluation in zakat instruction is essential for fostering meaningful and contextual learning. This study contributes a process-oriented account of how low numeracy literacy constrains contextual interpretation, mathematical modeling, and reflective evaluation in zakat problem solving, thereby providing an empirical basis for integrating numeracy development into religious education.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

union

Publisher

Subject

Education Mathematics

Description

Union: Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan Matematika is a peer-reviewed open access journal published three times in a year (March, July, and November). Union: Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan Matematika provides a forum for lecturers, academicians, researchers, practitioners, and students to deliver and share ...