An analysis of generic science skills as 21st-century skills for preservice physics teacher at UIN Raden Intan Lampung

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the generic science skills of students who were conducting experiments on the mechanics practicum. This research was qualitative descriptive research. The research subjects were the students of the Physics Education Study Program of UIN Raden Intan Lampung in the academic year of 2019 with a total of 130 students. The data collection technique employed was the non-test technique with the observation sheets and interview guidelines as the research instruments. Student activities were observed by 4 observers through direct observation, indirect observation, quantities scale awareness, logical framework, the law of cause and effect, observation, and conclusion. The indicators of the generic science skills in this research were based on the analysis of previous research related to the relationship between generic science skills and 21st-century skills. The percentage of generic science skills was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that the students’ overall average generic science skills were 67% which was in the moderate category. The highest was in the direct and indirect observations with a percentage of 78% which was in the high category while the lowest was in the principle-compliant logic framework with a percentage of 59% which was in the poor category. Due to the poor research results in several categories, it is suggested that educators reaffirm generic science skills in learning considering the importance of these skills to support students’ understanding and skills.