ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF MATHEMATICS ANXIETY ON MATHEMATICS PROBLEM SOLVING ABILITY AT MARITIME POLYTECHNIC IN PERAK

This study aimed to identify the level of mathematics anxiety, its relationship with mathematical problem solving ability, and its impact among maritime students at Perak Polytechnic, Malaysia. Quantitative methodology was used involving 220 respondents who were selected by simple random sampling. Data were collected through an online questionnaire adapted and modified from the Mathematics Anxiety Rating Scale (MARS) and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and linear regression. The findings showed that the students' mathematics anxiety level was at a moderate level (mean = 2.84), problem solving ability was also at a moderate level (mean = 3.51), while the level of academic support was at a high level (mean = 3.96). Correlation analysis showed a significant negative relationship between mathematics anxiety and problem solving ability (r = -0.530, p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed that mathematics anxiety contributed 28.1% of the variance in problem solving ability (B = -0.384, p < 0.001). This study emphasized the importance of academic support and interventions such as anxiety management modules, industry collaboration, and the use of technology to improve students' mathematics skills. The implications of this study suggest the need for a more practical and industry focused learning approach to reduce mathematics anxiety and increase the marketability of graduates in the maritime field.