Analisis Proses Pemecahan Masalah Bangun Datar Layang-Layang Pada Siswa Olimpiade SMP Katolik Maria Fatima Jember Berdasarkan Tahapan Polya

Abstract

Problem solving is an essential ability in mathematics learning that can be used to understand students' thinking processes when solving mathematical problems. According to Polya, problem solving consists of four stages: understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back. This study aimed to describe the problem-solving processes of mathematics olympiad students in solving kite geometry problems based on Polya's stages. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach. The research subjects consisted of six students who participated in the mathematics olympiad program at SMP Katolik Maria Fatima Jember and were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through problem-solving tests and semi-structured interviews. Data credibility was ensured through method triangulation by comparing test results and interview data. The data were analyzed through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results showed that, in general, the olympiad students were able to complete all stages of Polya's problem-solving process. At the stage of understanding the problem, students were able to identify the known and required information and restate the problem in their own words. At the stage of devising a plan, students were able to determine appropriate solution strategies by applying relevant concepts and formulas. At the stage of carrying out the plan, students implemented their strategies systematically, although some calculation errors were still found due to a lack of accuracy. At the stage of looking back, several students rechecked their solutions, while others did not thoroughly review their work, causing calculation errors to remain unnoticed. Therefore, mathematics olympiad students demonstrated good problem-solving abilities based on Polya's stages; however, improvements in accuracy and reflective thinking are still needed.