Implementation of rigorous mathematical thinking approach to analyze the students’ ability of algebraic thinking and understanding concept and mathematical habits of mind

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the students’ algebraic thinking skills and understanding of mathematical concept and Mathematical Habits of Mind (MHoM) students using Rigorous Mathematical Thinking (RMT) approach. To do so, we carried out three phases of a small-scale study. First, we analyzed three matrix problems, considered as tasks inviting the use of problem solving and algebraic ability and theoritically in the light of the RMT principles. Second, we tested problems to 54 students of mathematics education major of Indonesia University of Education in academic year 2016/2017. Finally we analyzed student written work, questionnaire of MHoM and compared these empirical to the theoritical results. We found that students who learn by using rigorous mathematical thinking have algebraic thinking skills and good conceptual understanding. In addition, students also have good mathematical habits of mind. We concluded that RMT approach fruitfull framework to increase students’ algebraic thinking skills and understanding of mathematical concept and MHoM students of Indonesia University of Education.