Problem-based Learning: Improving 10th-Grade Students’ Cognitive Learning Achievements and Collaboration Skills on Protist Material

Abstract

Good cognitive learning achievements and collaboration skills as one of the 21st-century skills are important for students to have. However, high school students have yet to achieve these abilities, therefore the right learning model is required to improve these two abilities. This classroom action research aims to improve students’ cognitive learning achievements and collaboration skills by implementing the PBL model on protist material. The study consists of two cycles, each contains of planning, action, observation, and reflection stages with 10th-grade students as participants. Cognitive learning data was obtained through pre-test and post-test, while collaboration skills data was collected through observation. The test refers to the six cognitive domains, and indicators of collaboration skills was adapted from Greenstein. There is a significant increase in cognitive learning achievements and collaboration skills. Overall, the PBL model is effective to improve collaboration skills and cognitive learning achievements. The results propose ideas for educators to implement PBL for teaching and learning activities.