EFEKTIVITAS MODEL PEMBELAJARAN PROBLEM BASED LEARNING (PBL) DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN BERPIKIR KRITIS PADA MATA PELAJARAN PAI DI SDN 02 NEGLASARI KECAMATAN KATIBUNG LAMPUNG SELATAN

Abstract

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model in improving students’ critical thinking skills in the Islamic Religious Education (PAI) subject at SDN 02 Neglasari, Katibung District, South Lampung. The study was conducted based on the initial findings that students’ critical thinking skills were relatively low due to the dominance of teacher-centered learning methods. A quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental method using a nonequivalent control group design was applied. Two classes were involved: the experimental class, which implemented PBL, and the control class, which used the lecture method. Data were collected through critical thinking tests administered during the pretest and posttest stages, as well as observations of students’ activities during learning. Data analysis was conducted using the t-test to identify differences between the two groups and the N-Gain test to measure the improvement in students’ critical thinking skills.

The results of the study reveal that students in the experimental group showed a more significant increase in critical thinking skills compared to those in the control group. PBL provided opportunities for students to analyze real-life problems, engage in discussions, and develop solutions based on Islamic values. These activities trained students to construct logical arguments, evaluate information, and make informed decisions. Moreover, PBL enhanced student participation, learning motivation, and communication skills. Meanwhile, the control group showed minimal improvement due to limited engagement in learning activities. Therefore, this study concludes that PBL is an effective model for improving critical thinking skills in primary school Islamic Religious Education. The findings have important implications for teachers and schools to adopt innovative learning models to improve the quality of PAI instruction.