Design of Learning Activities using Rigorous Mathematical Thinking (RMT) Approach in Application of Derivatives

Abstract

Learning design is one of the factors that support the learning process in order to achieve learning objectives in all subjects including mathematics. Many approaches can be employed by a teacher in making learning design, one of which is rigorous mathematical thinking (RMT) approach. The RMT approach puts forward students actively in constructing their knowledge through the use of psychological tools and mediation. This article reports a set of learning activities designed through a developmental study using the RMT approach in the topic of application of derivatives. Participants of this research were twenty-six of 11th grade students from a private secondary school. Data were collected through written test and classroom observation. The research instruments were student worksheet and observation sheet. In the learning process, students use psychological tools to connect their previous knowledge to the material being studied. This makes students able to construct their own knowledge more thoroughly. On the other hand, with the mediation carried out by the teacher, students can focus more and understand each material well and bridge the conceptual errors. Based on the results of the study and some literature, Design of learning activities using Rigorous Mathematical Thinking (RMT) on application of derivative can be an alternative as effective learning.