Digitizing Project-Based Learning in engineering education

Abstract

Students tend to be not explorative in solving their assignment. Improper learning system is one of several factors that probably be the cause of this problem. This research aims to analyze students’ problem solving abilities through the implementation of Project-Based Learning (PjBL) on Construction and Building Utilities subject. The research design is Quasi-Experimental Design with the type of Two-Group Posttest Only research. The population of this research is the students of XI DPIB in SMKN 9 Garut 2018/2019. The experimental class students use PjBL while the control class students use expository learning. Data analysis is obtained from students’ problem solving abilities test and observation results. The students’ problem solving abilities scores are calculated based on four steps of Polya’s problem solving theory, first is understanding the problem, second is planning how to solve the problem, third is calculating, and fourth is checking the result. The analysis result shows that the experimental class students have better problem solving abilities than the control class students. In addition, the experimental class students are more active and communicative in the class. According to problem solving ability test and observation results, PjBL is quite effective to be implemented on Construction and Building Utilities subject.