ANALYSIS OF STUDENTS' STATISTICAL THINKING ABILITY IN SOLVING CONTEXTUAL PROBLEMS ON CORRELATION AND LINEAR REGRESSION

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the statistical thinking ability of eleventh-grade students in solving contextual problems on correlation and linear regression. The study employed a descriptive qualitative approach supported by quantitative data. The subjects of this research were 40 students of class XI MIPA 2 at MAN 1 Mataram who had learned correlation and linear regression material. Data were collected through a statistical thinking ability test and semi-structured interviews with students representing high, medium, and low ability categories. The results showed that 30.40% of students were in the high category, 43.20% in the medium category, and 26.40% in the low category. Students in the high category were able to calculate, interpret, and relate the results of analysis to real-life contexts. Students in the medium category were generally able to perform calculations but still experienced difficulties in interpretation and concept application. Meanwhile, students in the low category showed difficulties in understanding basic concepts, performing calculations, and interpreting results. These findings indicate that students' statistical thinking abilities are still not optimal, especially in terms of interpretation and contextual application. Therefore, learning should emphasize conceptual understanding, data analysis, and contextual approaches to improve students’ statistical thinking abilities.