The Effect of Problem Based Learning Learning Model on Problem Solving and Critical Thinking Ability of Class Viii Students in Smpn 1 Singaraja of Science

Abstract

This study aimed to describe and explain the effect of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model on students’ problem solving and critical thinking skills. The study used a quasi-experimental research method with a non-equivalent pre-test post-test control group design. The population of the eighth grade students of SMP N 1 Singaraja were 222 students. The research sample was taken 2 classes using cluster random sampling techniques, namely Eighth grade A3 as the experimental class and Eighth grade A4 as the control class. Data collection used tests of problem solving abilities and critical thinking skills. the data were analyzed using MANCOVA (Multicovariate Analysis of Variance) with a significance level of 5%. The results of the study showed that there are differences in problem solving abilities and simultaneous critical thinking skills between students who follow the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model and students who follow the Guided Discovery Learning (GDL) model. There are differences in problem solving skills between students who follow the PBL learning model and students who follow the GDL learning model. There are differences in critical thinking skills between students who follow the PBL model and students who follow the GDL model. The average score of problem solving ability in PBL is higher, namely 83.06 compare to the average score of problem solving ability on GDL, which is 74.34. The average score of critical thinking skills in PBL is higher at 82.56 compare to the average score of critical thinking skills on GDL, which is 73.28.