Development of HOTS-Based Mathematics Module Integrating Lubuklinggau Tourism Context to Improve Students' Mathematical Literacy

Mathematical literacy among university students remains low, partly due to the lack of contextualized teaching materials that support higher-order thinking skills (HOTS). This study aims to develop a HOTS-based mathematics module integrating the tourism context of Lubuklinggau to improve students' mathematical literacy. The study employed a research and development (RD) approach using the 4-D model (Define, Design, Develop, Disseminate). Participants included first-semester PGSD students at Universitas PGRI Silampari, comprising 6 students in small group testing and 31 students in field testing. Instruments included expert validation forms, practicality questionnaires, and a mathematical literacy test. Data were analyzed using descriptive quantitative techniques. Validation results showed the module was considered valid (content: 80%, media: 80%, language: 89%). Practicality assessments from lecturers (87%) and students (97%) indicated the module was highly usable. The module effectively improved students’ mathematical literacy, with an average score of 80.31%, classified as "very effective." All assessed indicators—communication, problem-solving strategies, mathematization, representation, and reasoning—achieved either effective or very effective categories. The integration of local tourism context within a HOTS framework offers a promising strategy to enhance students' engagement and comprehension. The developed module not only meets the criteria of validity, practicality, and effectiveness but also serves as a relevant instructional tool for supporting 21st-century skills in mathematics education.