Problem Solving Ability, its Related Factors and Academic Performance in Mathematics for an Enhanced Teaching Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Mathematics is the heart of Science and problem solving is the hearth of Mathematics, therefore students must develop their ability to solve word problems to achieve a better academic performance in mathematics. Mathematical problem-solving abilities and difficulties of students have been the subject of concern of all mathematics educators here and abroad. Most mathematics educators agree that problem-solving is a very important goal of mathematics instruction at every level. This study focuses on problem-solving ability its related factors and academic performance in Mathematics for improved teaching program of fourth-year students in a certain barangay in Silang.

METHODS

This study employed descriptive-survey and correlation research design method. This method was used by the researcher todescribe specific behavior as it occurs in the environment. Questionnaires are the main instruments used in the study. Questionnaire was distributed and retrieved by the researcher with 174 students, 88 males and 86 females. The variables were measured correlated, statistically analyzed and interpreted to validly answer the research problem. The findings can be used as a basis for developing reinforcement/enrichment exercises.

RESULTS

Employing the descriptive-survey and correlation research design methodusing sets of questionnaires, the result show that the students have fair problem-solving ability; fair in all the related factors to problem solving such as reading comprehension, translating word sentence to mathematical symbols and attitude towards mathematics but moderate on fundamental operation, with satisfactory in performance in mathematics. Also, there are significant relationships that exist between students' academic performance and problem-solving ability, students' academic performance and reading comprehension ability, students' academic performance and translating word sentence into mathematical symbol or equation, students' academic performance and performing fundamental operations, and between students' academic performance and attitude towards mathematics.

DISCUSSIONS

The results demonstrate that the students have difficulties in reading comprehension. They cannot analyze the statement, determine the data, translate word phrases into the equation and solve problems without the help of his/her peer or teacher. These factors affect their academic performance and attitude towards mathematics.