Work

The Relationship between Cognitive Flexibility and Mathematical Literacy: Insights from Indonesian Elementary Students

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the relationship between mathematical literacy and cognitive flexibility in solving complex problems among Indonesian elementary school students aged 9–10 n = 78. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combined quantitative testing and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of this relationship. The findings indicate that students with higher levels of both literacy and flexibility performed significantly better in problem-solving. However, students with high flexibility but low literacy struggled to grasp mathematical concepts while those with high literacy but low flexibility showed rigid problem-solving approaches. Despite these differences, all students demonstrated potential for improvement with adequate teacher support. These results emphasize the importance of tailored educational strategies to enhance both mathematical literacy and cognitive flexibility especially in developing countries like Indonesia.

Source: lnternational Electronic Journal of Elementary Education

DOI: 10.26822/iejee.2025.385

Authors: Sri Rahayuningsih, Ade Eka Anggriani, Mardhatillah Mardhatillah, Siti Faizah, Yuniawatika Yuniawatika, Nurzatulshima Kamarudin

Institution: State University of Malang

Language: English

Topic: Mathematics Education and Pedagogy

Subfield: Applied Mathematics

Field: Mathematics

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $350