Student Critical Thinking Skills in Problem Making on Triangle Topics
Rahaju(a,b*), Purwanto(b), I Nengah Parta(b), Swasono Rahardjo(b)

a) Elementary School Teacher Education Study Program, Universitas Kanjuruhan Malang, Jl. S. Supriadi No. 48 Malang 65124, Indonesia
*ayurakoep[at]unikama.ac.id

b) Graduate School, Universitas Negeri Malang, Jl. Semarang 5 Malang 65145, Indonesia

Abstract

Critical thinking is not only necessary in solving mathematical problems, but also in the making of problems. This study traces the critical thinking skills of students who follow the elementary school teacher education program in making mathematic problems. Students are given the task of making a problem related to the topic of triangle, then interviewed to explore the process or reason of making the problem. This case study found that students do not think critically in making mathematic problems. Problems are made by altering numbers or modifying information on problems that have been studied or contained on the internet without check the accuracy of information in the problem. Students do not always make the key answer to check the truth of the problem. In addition, do not reflection to check the accuracy or logic of the problem, so the problem is monotonous and there is a wrong problem. Therefore, critical thinking skills in problem-making are required. The findings of this research are useful for the development of critical thinking skills and further investigation of critical thinking skills in the manufacture of other mathematic problems.

Keywords: critical thinking, making the problem, triangle topics

Topic: Teaching and Learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics