Analysis of Pre-service Primary Teachers' Difficulties In Solving Word Problem

Abstract

The solution of word problems requires cognitive and affective knowledge of problem solvers. However, many college' students faced difficulties in solving word problems. The descriptive study using a qualitative approach aims to explore difficulties faced by pre-service primary teachers when solving word problems. The participants of this study were 40 pre-service elementary teachers who were taking realistic mathematics learning courses in the academic year 2019/2020. Data were collected through word problem tasks and interviews. Data were analyzed using the Newman procedure. The results showed that most pre-service elementary teacher had difficulty in solving word problems. Difficulties faced by the pre-service elementary teacher who does not get the right solution are caused by (1) lack of understanding of the problems given; (2) lack of knowledge of strategy's inability to translate problems into mathematical forms; (3) inability to use mathematics correctly; and (4) inability to use correct mathematics. The implication of this study is teacher educators should provide scaffolding and feedback during learning in class.