Problem-Based Learning Model: Its Effectiveness in Improving Creative Thinking Skills of Students with Different Academic Abilities

Abstract

This study aims to: 1) Test the effectiveness of using simple and complex problem-based learning models in improving students' creative thinking abilities; 2) Test the effectiveness of simple and complex problem-based learning models in improving students' creative thinking skills based on different academic abilities. This research is quasi-experimental with a pretest-posttest nonequivalent control group design involved 96 students grade VII taken by cluster random sampling included a control class with a simple problem-solving model (PSS), experimental class 1 using the Creative Problem Solving (CPS) learning model, and experimental class 2 using the IDEAL-Problem solving (IPS) learning model. The hypothesis test using N-Gain Score and ANCOVA. The results showed: 1) problem-based learning models are generally effective in improving students' creative thinking abilities. PSS learning model (N-Gain 46%, less effective); IPS learning model (N-Gain 60% is quite effective; CPS learning model (N-Gain 71% effective). The order of effectiveness of the three learning models is CPS, IPS, PSS.; 2) Problem-based learning models are generally effective in improving students’ creative thinking abilities with different academic abilities. The percentage of effectiveness of the three models is the PSS is ineffective (20.13%) or less effective (34.38%); IPS is quite effective (62.50%); CPS is effective (43.75%). Based on the study's results, it can be concluded that 1) Problem-based learning models (PSS, CPS, IPS) can improve students' creative thinking skills. 2) The CPS is most effective in improving students' creative thinking skills.