"Mathematical Habits of Mind in Solving Non-Routine Problems and Academic Performance of Grade 9 Students "

Abstract

This descriptive-correlational study aimed to determine the levels of mathematical habits of mind (MHoM) and its components in solving non-routine problems that predict academic performance. It also aimed to determine the strength of relationship among the components of MHoM. The respondents of this study are the 120 grade 9 students who came from randomly selected secondary schools in Iloilo City. The Mathematical Habits of Mind Instrument, a researcher-made instrument was used in this study. Descriptive data analyses made use of the mean and standard deviation while One- Way ANOVA, Pearson’s r and multiple regression analysis were used for inferential data analyses. Significance level is set at 0.05. Findings reveal that respondents have satisfactorily-developed MHoM as a whole and in terms of searching for patterns, linking ideas and representation and reasoning deductively and through experiments. They have slightly-developed MHOM in solving problems in many ways and strongly-developed habit of reflecting and self-checking of learning. Coed students have significantly higher ability to solve problems in many ways than private all-boys schools students. Each of the five components of MHoM is significantly related to one another. Habits of searching for patterns and reflecting and self-checking of learning are significant predictors of academic performance. Teachers are recommended to incorporate cooperative learning strategies for students to present their own solution and processes. Students are highly encouraged to be given opportunities to solve problems in more than one way.