The Causal Factors Affecting Mathematics Problem-Solving Ability of Prathomsueksa 6 Students

Abstract

Mathematics problem-solving ability originates from various causal factors. This it is
necessary for teachers to understand different factors in order to develop a model of
mathematics learning-teaching activities to be in accordance with learners, needs. This
research aimed to examine relationships and to construct a model showing relationships of
causal factors affecting mathematics problem-solving ability. The study was conducted in 2
stages : stage 1 determined the model showing relationships of the causal factors affecting
mathematics problem-solving ability which was the model of relationships based on the
hypothesis. Stage 2 tested the validity of the model of relationships based on the hypothesis
and improved it to be the adjusted model of relationships. The sample consisted of 357
prathomsueksa (grade) 6 students from 15 schools under the offce of Amnat Charoen
Educational service Area, obtained using the multi-stage random sampling technique.
There were totally 9 independent variables including : prior knowledge, calculating skills,
language understanding skills, attitude toward mathematics, achievement motivation,
teaching quality attention to learning, self-concept, and self-discipline. The collected data
were analyzed using path analysis and using LISREL 8.30 program.
The research fndings were as follows :
1. The causal factors affecting mathematics problem-solving ability of prathomsueksa
6 students had 9 variables according to the established hypothesis
2. The causal factors affecting mathematics problem-solving ability of prathomsueksa
6 students showed positive relationships with mathematics problem-solving ability at the .01
level of signifcance. Predictive coeffcient (R2) was .215, showing that all of the variables could
cooperatively explain the variance of mathematics problem-solving ability at 21.50 percent.
3. The model of showing relationships of the causal factors affecting mathematics
problem-solving ability of prathomsueksa 6 students could be shown in the fgure below

he variables with influences in the form of being direct causes on mathematics
problem-solving ability of prathomsueksa 6 students included : calculating skills, language
skills, and self-concept.
The variables with influences in the form of being direct and indirect causes on
mathematics problem-solving ability of prathomsueksa 6 students included : prior knowledge,
attitude toward mathematics, and teaching quality.
The variables with influences in the form of being indirect cause on mathematics
problem-solving ability of prathomsueksa 6 students included : achievement motivation,
attention to learning, and self-discipline.
In conclusion, the fndings of this research could be used as information for
mathematics learning-teaching development in terms of problem-solving skills to
be more effcient.