An Analysis of the Statistical Literacy of Middle School Students in Solving TIMSS Problems

Abstract

The aim of this research is to describe and explore the statistical literacy of middle school students in solving the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) problems. This research utilized the qualitative approach, with the research type being descriptive-explorative. The research subjects consisted of 6 Grade 8 students from Muhammadiyah Middle School 6 of Malang in Malang Regency, Indonesia. Two students had a high mathematical ability, two others had a moderate ability, and the last two had low ability. The data analysis technique applied in this research was the interactive technique, composed of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The data collection for this research involved testing and interviews. The utilized test consisted of an adaptation of TIMSS for the materials of data and opportunities. Interview guidelines were used to support the data collected from the test. The research results indicated that low-ability, moderate-ability, and high-ability students were similar in that they were able to understand the problems. The difference among students of across different categories lies in data processing and data communication. Students with high mathematical abilities could process data and communicate them in detail, while those with moderate abilities could process data and communicate them but not in detail, and students with low abilities could only explain the mathematical problems.