Mathematical reasoning structure of junior high school students in solving problems based on their working memory capacity

Abstract

Mathematical reasoning has a clear structure. In mathematical reasoning structure, working memory capacity is considered as something important. This study aimed at knowing the mathematical reasoning structure of junior high school students in solving problems reviewed based on working memory capacity. This research was a qualitative research. This study was carried out in state Junior High School in Makale. The selection of research subjects was done by providing tests to measure students’ working memory capacity. The test used was O-SPAN Test and the researcher chose 1 student with high category working memory capacity and 1 student with low category working memory capacity. Then the researcher gave a test to investigate the reasoning structure. Mathematical reasoning structure of research participant with low working memory capacity showed the stage of problematic situation, strategy choice, conclusion could be done. However, for the stage of strategy is implemented, subject implemented the strategy in one way and could not find a maximum result. Subject with low working memory capacity could provide conclusions but could not give verification arguments showing the strategy used was correct or reasonable and could solve the problem. Mathematical reasoning structure of research subject with high working memory capacity fulfilled the four mathematical reasoning structures namely problematic situation, strategy choice, implemented strategy, and conclusion.