This Problem Solving in Mathematics course basically teach me on how to solve mathematical

problem in a strategic way. There are various strategies in order to solve any mathematical problem
in classroom. By forming a group of people to solve a problem also could help students to meet
with the solution. From that, communication within group members play a very important role
either in mathematical demonstration or other ways. The problems that we have tried to solve in
class such as puzzles, pattern, word problems, algebra problems, counting and probability
problems, problems dealing with geometry and other mathematical problems. In this course, we
had been exposed to explore of various mathematics contexts to learn mathematics. Mathematics
is just not a subject that only can be learn in the classroom, our daily life also involves
mathematical learning. This course also a little bit like to promote more students to engage with
mathematic in a much better than before. Learning mathematic is just not from the theory then do
all the exercise question, from problem solving also mathematic can be taught. Problem solving
activity in the classroom generally need creative thinking and critical thinking. Both were used in
the process to find the solution for routine and non-routine problems.

At the earlier part of this course, we are well-explained about the theory that related with
problem solving in mathematics, then we are practicing to solve related problems. There are four
phases in solving a problem; (1) Understand the problem (2) Devise a plan (3) Carry out the plan
(4) Look back. Those four phases of Polya’s approach is general strategy that can be used in
attempting to solve almost any problem. But, there will be no guarantee to be success, as we know
in order to solve any problem we are required a lot of things other than these phases. Besides that,
skill, knowledge, capabilities and other resources were needed to solve a particular problem. To
implement after all the problem-solving lesson, is not easy. Like others thing that we want to be
master in, we need a lot of exercise. Once a week of class is not enough to get a crystal clear
understanding, as a student, revising what have been learned in class afterwards is very important
and would give a huge impact. I very interested with a quote from George Polya that mentioned
in the book which is:

“A great discovery solved a great problem but there is a grain of discovery in the solution
of any problem. Your problem may be modest; but if it challenges your curiosity and brings into
play your inventive facilities, and if you solve it by your own means, you may experience the tension
and enjoy the triumph of discovery.”
 Throughout the semester, there are three main activities that we have been done. All those
activities have its own targeted objective that we are need to achieved. After accomplish a task,
we are required to make a presentation about the task which are; (1) Objective (2) Procedure (3)
Strategy (4) Reflection. The activity also done by group with different members. Instructors asked
us to do so might be to make us flexible with others members with different strength or weakness.
So that, we can improvise ourselves time by time. The activities are:

1. London Bridge
2. Guess My Number
3. Sudoku
4. Yes, It Is the Movie

Having fun in learning mathematic is probably difficult to get, but I can feel the fun in this
course. Otherwise it was not highlighted in this course outcome. Teamwork between members is
essential during the group work. A good communication and body languages that used also give
an impact towards the task that need to be accomplish. Willing take risk is also needed in
everything we do.

As conclusion, from this Problem Solving in Mathematic course give us a lot beneficial
things that might I can use in future. My confidence level toward in solving mathematical problem
also increase afterwards.