EXPLORING STUDENT ALGEBRAIC THINKING IN SOLVING MATH PROBLEMS IN TERMS OF KOLB'S LEARNING STYLE

Abstract

Algebraic thinking plays an important role in solving problems, especially related to algebra. This study aims to explore the students’ algebraic thinking profile in solving problems in terms of the stages of Kolb learning style. This type of research is qualitative with a case study approach. The subjects of the study were 54 students of grade VIII at one of the private secondary schools in Surakarta, Central Java.  The research instruments used include algebraic thinking test questions, KLSI (Kolb Learning Style Inventory) questionnaires, and interview guidelines.  The data was analyzed by reducing data, presenting data, and drawing conclusions.  The finding showed that all subjects have met the algebraic thinking indicators on the generalization component. The subjects are able to recognize the pattern and use the discovered pattern to determine the next pattern. The subjects have also the ability to solve the problem using a simplification strategy. The finding also showed the CE stage learning style tends to use their experience about the prior knowledge had learned to solve the problem. Meanwhile, the AE, AC, and RO stage learning styles tend to use their logic by utilizing the information on the problem to solve the problem. Thus, it can be concluded that the different stage learning styles affect the different strategies in solving generalization problems