PENGARUH PENERAPAN PENDEKATAN REALISTIC MATHEMATICS EDUCATION TERHADAP KEMAMPUAN KOMUNIKASI MATEMATIS PESERTA DIDIK KELAS VII SMPN 43 BATAM

Abstract

Mathematical communication skill is an important aspect that needs to be possessed by every learner. However, based on the condition at SMPN 43 Batam, this ability is still relatively low. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of Realistic Mathematics Education (RME) approach in improving mathematical communication skills compared to the scientific approach. This study used quasi-experimental method with Posttest-Only Control Group design. The study population included all seventh grade students of SMPN 43 Batam, with Simple Random Sampling technique. Class VII.6 was designated as the experimental group and VII.5 as the control group. Data were collected through a final test (posttest) and analyzed statistically. The results showed that the mean value of students' mathematical communication ability in the experimental class was higher than the control class. Based on the t-test, the P-value < α was obtained which indicates a significant difference between the two groups. Therefore, it can be concluded that the RME approach is more effective in improving students' mathematical communication skills than the scientific approach.