Problem solving based physics learning strategy to enhance students’ higher order thinking skills

Abstract

Higher order thinking skills (HOTS) in learning that would be needed in the 21st century. This study probed the effect of utilizing problem-solving strategy while learning physics. The sample of this study is two classes from the second year of Senior High School in Pontianak. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were applied to identify students’ HOTS, to analyze students’ score and acquire the effect of problem-solving strategy after students learning physics. The result shows that student’s physics HOTS who studied by problem-solving strategy is higher than students’ by rehearsal strategy. Thus indicates that problem-solving strategy can be effective to enhance students’ HOTS of physics. The pedagogical implication is discussed on the use of problem-solving strategy as an alternative strategy for physics teaching.