Students' Critical Thinking in Solving Numeracy Problems: A Case Study of Students with High Self-Efficacy

Critical thinking is a 21st century skill that allows students to think reflectively and reason in making decisions. Students' critical thinking influences success in solving numeracy problems. This study aims to explain the ability to think critically in solving numeracy problems with high self-efficacy. The study employed a qualitative approach and phenomenological method. Data collection involved the use of the Group Embedded Figures Test (GEFT), self-efficacy questionnaires, and numeracy assessments in mathematics, specifically on topics related to cubes and rectangular prisms. Data analysis comprised data condensation, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. Based on GEFT and self-efficacy questionnaire results, one class V-B student with a field-dependent cognitive style and high self-efficacy was selected for further critical thinking skills assessment. Based on the results the student with a field-dependent cognitive style and high self-efficacy demonstrated notable strengths. In the process of basic clarification, the student met the indicators for analyzing arguments and formulating statements, effectively presenting their arguments. When providing reasons for decisions, the student showed the ability to consider the credibility of sources by selecting appropriate problem-solving strategies. However, she occasionally made calculation errors due to inaccuracy. In the process of concluding, the student met the indicators for making and evaluating decisions, successfully composing conclusion sentences that aligned with the problems and final answers. Students with field dependent cognitive style and high self efficacy are able to fulfill all indicators of critical thinking by using their ability to solve critical thinking problems. He excelled in verbal ability at the time of the interview by explaining the argument of the problem and the answer, but his weakness is less thorough in working so that the results obtained are less precise.