Students^ Critcal Thinking Skills on Integrated Model PBL-POE in Environtmental Pollution Material
Firda Aulia Sabrihana, Yudi Rinanto, Umi Fatmawati

Department of Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta, Indonesia

Abstract

The critical thinking skills of students in Indonesia remain low, as shown by both national and international studies. The Problem Based Learning (PBL) model has proven effective in improving these skills. However, it lacks a prediction activity within its syntax, which is essential for supporting the investigative process. The Problem Based Learning-Predict, Observe, Explain (PBL-POE) model was developed to complement PBL^s structure. This study aims to determine the differences in students^ critical thinking skills between the PBL and PBL-POE models and examine the achievement of critical thinking indicators under each model. This research is a quantitative quasi-experimental study using a pretest-posttest nonequivalent control group design. Data were collected through pretests and posttests to measure students critical thinking skills. Data analysis used descriptive statistics to describe students^ critical thinking and inferential statistics to test hypotheses. Hypothesis testing was conducted using Ancova, preceded by prerequisite tests including normality, homogeneity, and linearity tests. The results showed a significant difference in critical thinking skills between the PBL and PBL-POE groups (sig. = 0.000). The PBL-POE group achieved a higher average posttest score (73.89) compared to the PBL group (63.50). The PBL-POE model consistently outperformed the PBL model across critical thinking indicators such as interpretation, analysis, inference, evaluation, and explanation, while both models showed equal results on the self-regulation indicator. The PBL-POE model demonstrated higher average outcomes and indicator achievements than the PBL model, indicating that PBL-POE can serve as an innovative solution for enhancing critical thinking skills in learning.

Keywords: Critical Thinking Skills, Problem Based Learning (PBL), Problem Based Learning-Predict, Observe, Explain (PBL-POE)

Topic: Biology and Biology Education