Improve social studies learning outcomes through problem-based learning, interpersonal intelligence, and initial abilities

Abstract

Abstract: The reality of social studies learning empirically only focuses on theoretical and learning material only so that it becomes uninteresting and boring learning. Social studies learning is also less noticed because of memorization so it does not seem to develop students' critical thinking skills. Learning that tends to be teacher-oriented makes students have a high level of dependence on the teacher and makes the teacher a source of information in learning. In order for social learning to be effective and efficient, this must be done by teachers who have competencies and qualifications that are appropriate to their fields. Teachers must also have the ability to choose and use relevant and appropriate learning strategies so that they can improve their learning outcomes. But sometimes many teachers have not maximally used the appropriate learning strategies in their learning, so the low social studies learning outcomes of students. This study aims to determine social studies learning outcomes through problem-based learning, interpersonal intelligence, and initial abilities. This research was conducted at Subang 1 Junior High School 1 using a quantitative approach and carried out from January to March 2016. Data was collected using questionnaires and learning outcomes tests which were then processed and analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis. The results of the study show in general that the use of problem-based learning strategies can improve social studies learning outcomes. This study provides a number of suggestions including the need to use appropriate learning strategies to improve social studies learning outcomes. Keywords: social studies learning outcome, problem based learning, interpersonal intelligence, and initial abilities.