The ability to solve mathematical problems through realistic mathematics learning based on ethnomathematics

Abstract

Problem-solving is one of the goals of mathematics learning. Ethnomimetic-based realistic mathematics learning is learning with starting-point contextual problems that are close to students’ minds. This study aims to determine the effect of ethnomathematics-oriented realistic mathematics learning on problem-solving abilities. That is a type of quasi-experimental research. The study design was a non-equivalent control group. The population is SMA N 2 Kota Bengkulu in 2019. The sample of this study was 68 students from Class X MIPA A and X MIPA D. The research instrument was a test of problem-solving skills. Data were collected through tests and analysed by covariate analysis. The results of this study are that realistic mathematics learning oriented to ethnomathematics has a positive effect on the ability to solve. The conclusion is that realistic mathematics learning with ethnomathematics orientation can improve mathematical problem-solving skills for secondary school students. We suggest that mathematics teachers can develop realistic mathematics learning tools with ethnomathematics as a starting point for learning.