Mathematical Representation Profile of Students in Problem Solving Based on Cognitive Styles

Abstract

Abstract

One of the objectives mathematics learning for students is to get the ability to solve problems which connected with their daily life. Because of the problem complexity and limitations of human thought, it is hard for human to solve the problem only with their internal ability. The methods to represents and describe their own problem of an individual might be important while solving a problem. Representation is divided into verbal representation, visual representation, and symbolic representation. One of the matters that refers to individual tendencies and individual approaches to organizing and representing is known as cognitive style. Result of this study showed that the profile of students mathematical representation in mathematical problem solving based on cognitive style was, (1) student with Field Dependents cognitive style could solve mathematical problems involved verbal representation in understanding the problem and making a plan; verbal representation in looking back; and symbolic representation in understanding the problem, making a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back, (2) student with Field Independents cognitive style could solve mathematical problems involved visual representation in understanding the problem; verbal representation in making a plan and looking back; and symbolic representation in understanding the problem, making a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back.

Keywords: Mathematical Representation, Problem Solving, Field Dependent, Field Independent.