Problem-solving difficulties, performance, and differences among preservice teachers in Western Philippines University

Authors:
Jupeth T. Pentang¹*, Louina Joana T. Andrade², Jocelyn C. Golben², Jonalyn P. Talua², Ronalyn M. Bautista², Janina C. Sercenia³, Dian Permatasari⁴, Manuel L. Bucad Jr.², and Mark Donnel D. Viernes^2
1Central Luzon State University, Science City of Muñoz, Philippines
²Western Philippines University, Puerto Princesa City, Philippines
³De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
⁴UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
*Correspondence: jupeth.pentang@clsu2.edu.ph

How to cite:
Pentang JT, Andrade LJT, Golben JC, Talua JP, Bautista RM, Sercenia JC, Permatasari D, Bucad Jr. ML and Viernes MDD. 2024. Problem-solving difficulties, performance, and differences among preservice teachers in Western Philippines University. The Palawan Scientist, 16(1): 58-68.

ABSTRACT
The ability to solve problems is a prerequisite in preparing mathematics preservice teachers. This study assessed preservice teachers’ problem-solving difficulties and performance, particularly in worded problems on number sense, measurement, geometry, algebra, and probability. Also, academic profile differences in the preservice teacher’s problem-solving performance and common errors were determined. A descriptive-comparative research design was employed with 158 random respondents. Data were gathered face-to-face during the first semester of the school year 2022-2023, and data were analyzed with the aid of jamovi software, ensuring ethical measures. Overall findings revealed that the preservice teachers experienced average difficulty in solving problems. The low performance of the preservice teachers on the given problems was also demonstrated. Further analysis revealed a significant difference between the preservice teachers’ problem-solving performance based on their subject preference and program. Moreover, the error analysis revealed that the preservice teachers incurred comprehension errors in misrepresentation, misinterpretation, and miscalculation. These results will serve as a measure for policymakers and curriculum developers of the teacher education institution concerned to make relevant enhancements to the math courses offered in the elementary and secondary education programs.

Keywords: educational research, mathematics education, teacher education, word problems

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