The development of computational thinking and mathematics problem solving skill through mathematics modelling activities

Abstract

Based on the latest TIMSS report, it could be observed that Year 8 students from Malaysia has not been performing well ever since participating in this global assessment on mathematics achievement. There were some studies stated that by equipping the students with computational thinking, it could improve the students’ mathematics achievement. Likewise, some studies also claimed that computational thinking skill could be developed in a stimulated modelling environment. However, there were not many studies investigated about the relationship of mathematics modelling activities and the development of computational thinking skill and mathematics problem-solving competency. As a result, this study which adopted the qualitative design with the seven respondents ought to examine the development of computational thinking skill and mathematics problem-solving competency via mathematics modelling activities among secondary students. The modelling activities were conducted for the seven weeks including introduction of modelling, individual modelling task and group modelling task. The computational thinking test and mathematics test were conducted for more data collection. As for data analysis, the observation on works and interviews were executed, and the scores obtained from both tests were compared and analysed as well. Based on the findings of the study, it could be concluded that the students were able to develop their computational thinking skill and mathematics problem-solving competency via mathematics modelling activities with different progress. These results indicated the mathematics modelling could be conducted at the school for the benefits of educators and students. Few recommendations were listed for the usage of future research.