Pseudo-Thinking in Solving Static and Dynamic Covariational Problems
Jamilah, Sandie (Corresponding Author), Nurfadilah Siregar, Syarifah Fadillah, Evin Susanti, Radina Faradita

Universitas PGRI Pontianak
Universitas PGRI Pontianak
Universitas Tanjungpura
Universitas PGRI Pontianak
Universitas PGRI Pontianak
Universitas PGRI Pontianak

Abstract

This research explored students^ understanding of various mathematical problems involving pseudo-thinking, referring to shallow and mechanical understanding without grasping the deeper mechanisms. Through a qualitative study with a case study approach, the researcher analyzed students^ pseudo-thinking in solving covariational problems in both static and dynamic contexts. The study was conducted with fifth-semester Mathematics Education students at two different colleges. Tests and in-depth interviews revealed that students often demonstrated pseudo-thinking by solving problems procedurally without understanding the fundamental principles underlying the relationship between variables in both static and dynamic covariational problems. Furthermore, while students could solve problems procedurally, they were unable to provide reasoning for each of the steps they had completed.

Keywords: pseudo-thinking, covariational problems

Topic: Mathematics