Journal of Research in Science and Mathematics Education
Vol. 5 No. 2 (2026): August

Mapping Undergraduate Students' Misconceptions and Their Developmental Trajectory in Fundamental Concepts of Complex Analysis

Rika Septianingsih (Universitas Pasir Pengaraian)
Arcat (Universitas Pasir Pengaraian)
Jajang Rahmatudin (Universitas Muhammadiyah Cirebon)
Nia Kania (Universitas Majalengka)
Lilis Marina Angraini (Islamic University of Riau)
Tasya Indri Rangkuti (Universitas Pasir Pengaraian)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Aug 2026

Abstract

Purpose: Conceptual understanding is fundamental in Complex Analysis because students must coordinate algebraic, geometric, and polar representations to construct advanced mathematical concepts. However, existing studies have primarily focused on identifying students' errors rather than explaining how misconceptions develop across interconnected concepts. This study aimed to map undergraduate students' misconception profiles and identify the developmental trajectory of misconceptions in fundamental Complex Analysis concepts. Methodology: A descriptive qualitative approach was employed involving nine mathematics education students who had completed a Complex Analysis course. Data were collected through an open-ended diagnostic test and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding. Findings: The findings revealed that the most frequent misconception occurred in the application of De Moivre's Theorem (66.7%), followed by the polar form (55.6%), argument and argument in polar form (44.4%), analyticity of complex functions (44.4%), and complex number representation and the Cauchy–Riemann equations (33.3%). Significance: The analysis suggested a hierarchical pattern in students' misconceptions, beginning with complex number representation and extending to argument, polar form, De Moivre's Theorem, and analytic functions. This pattern indicates a possible developmental trajectory of misconceptions across interconnected concepts. These findings suggest a possible developmental trajectory of misconceptions and provide implications for designing instruction that emphasizes conceptual connections and the coordination of multiple mathematical representations.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jrsme

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Chemistry Education Mathematics Physics

Description

Journal of Research in Science and Mathematics Education (J-RSME) is a journal to publish works in the form of research results, theoretical studies and review results that are original and have a novelty as a contribution to science in the scope of mathematics education, physics education, ...