Primarily research on the mathematical problem-solving abilities of grade X Vocational High School students for Computer and Network Engineering Competencies

Abstract

Computer and network engineering are one of the skill competencies in Vocational high school. Graduates of this major are expected to have problem-solving abilities to be able to compete in the working world. Mathematics is a subject that can develop mathematical problemsolving abilities. This study aimed to see, review and describe the mathematical problem-solving abilities of students and draw conclusions about these things as the phenomena found and to review the conditions of the learning devices used and developed by the teacher. This research used descriptive quantitative research methods. The data was collected through interviews, observations, and giving tests. Data analysis techniques used descriptive techniques for the results of observation and interview data, and scoring rubrics for mathematical problem-solving abilities for test result data. The results showed that the students' mathematical problem-solving abilities were still not relatively low. Some of the factors that cause this are 1) the learning was still using the lecturing method so that learning became meaningless, 2) students were accustomed to copying and memorizing formulas given by the teacher without understanding them, 3) the learning tools used were the same for each skill program, 4) a mathematics learning approach had not led students to be actively involved in the learning process and had not guided students to construct their knowledge in improving mathematical problem-solving abilities. Based on these results, further action is needed in the form of research on the development of constructivism-based learning tools to improve the mathematical problem-solving abilities of students in the Vocational High School for Computer and Network Engineering Competencies.