<b>Development of a Problem-based Learning Student Worksheet to Improve Mathematical Problem-Solving in Junior High School</b>

Source abstract

Purpose –Junior high school students' problem-solving ability, particularly in Bengkulu, remains low, as reflected in classroom learning-completeness achievement. This study aims to develop a problem-based learning student worksheet with a contextual approach to support mathematical problem-solving ability, meeting the criteria of validity, practicality, and effectiveness. Methodology – This study used design research of the development study type, following Tessmer's two stages: preliminary research and formative evaluation (self-evaluation, expert review, one-to-one, small group, and field test). The student worksheet was trialed in 8th grade at SMP N 10 Bengkulu with 27 students. The data analysis techniques used in this study were analysis of validators' revision notes, analysis of the percentage scores from the practicality questionnaire, and analysis of the scoring of students' problem-solving ability test after using the student worksheet. Findings –The results show that the problem-based learning-based student worksheet with a contextual approach for mathematical problem-solving ability met the following criteria: (a) valid in terms of material, construct, and language aspects, as well as students' readability aspect; (b) practical, with an overall average percentage of 87.87%; and (c) effective, based on students' classical learning completeness, with 85.19% of students obtaining a score of ≥70 and an average problem-solving ability test score of 76.66, categorized as high. Novelty –The novelty of this study lies in the product's emphasis on contextual problems as the initial reference point in the problem-based learning stages. In addition, the contextual problems relate to issues in students' own environment, thereby supporting the learning process. Significance – This study contributes to the field of education, particularly by providing teachers with an alternative learning resource for developing students' problem-solving skills. In addition, students gain experience in understanding the material through the problem-solving activities presented in the student worksheet.