Development of the thinkhots software based on thinking maps to increase higher-order thinking skill

Abstract

The weak performance of Malaysian students in the Trends in Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) and the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) indicates a very low mastery of higher-order thinking skills (HOTS) among them. The i-Think program, which introduces eight types of thinking maps, was introduced to increase and cultivate the thinking skills of students and teachers. In line with the implementation of the programme, a Computer Aided Learning (CAL) software named 'ThinkHOTS' was developed. This software covers Form 1 KBSM Mathematics topics of Round Number, and Number Pattern and Sequence. The software was developed based on a cognitive theory, and each question in the software uses all sorts of thinking maps and focuses on weaker students, although it is still suitable for use by all Form 1 students. 'ThinkHOTS' was developed based on the ADDIE model using the Macromedia Authorware 7.0, Adobe Photoshop CS6, Adobe Flash CS6, and Sony Sound Forge 9.0. The majority of the respondents agreed that the contents of 'ThinkHOTS' software was in sync with the KBSM Mathematics syllabus, easy to use, suitable as a Teaching Tool (ABM) for learning and teaching, and helped students understand mathematical concepts. From a technical perspective, a majority of the respondents agreed that the illustrations and explanation of the teaching materials were clear and easily understood, and the 'ThinkHOTS' software was complete with a user manual. The combination of the thinking maps application and multimedia elements makes students' learning experience more interesting and encourages them to use HOTS.