Analyzing the students’ mathematical creative thinking ability in terms of self-regulated learning: How do we find what we are looking for?

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the mathematical creative thinking ability of grade VIII students at a State Junior High School in Riau, Indonesia, in terms of self-regulated learning. A qualitative design was employed, utilizing descriptive methods through a case study approach, and the participants included 28 students of grade VIII-C. To ensure data accuracy, a data triangulation technique was employed, which included a test for mathematical creative thinking skills, self-regulated learning questionnaires, introductory questionnaires, and interview guidelines. The validity of the data was measured using the Miles and Huberman technique, which involved data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results showed that the mathematical creative thinking skills of students were relatively low. Furthermore, it was discovered that self-regulated learning was significantly correlated with creative thinking ability. Specifically, students who exhibited high levels of self-regulated learning demonstrated higher creative thinking abilities than their peers with moderate or low levels. Similarly, participants with moderate self-regulated learning displayed sufficient abilities, while those with low self-regulated learning exhibited poor creative thinking abilities.