Exploring Students^ Attitudes Toward STEM Project-Based Learning Through A Hydraulic Jack Project Rudi Hartono (a), Nanang Winarno (a*), and Hernani (b)
a) Department of Science Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Indonesia
b) Department of Chemistry Education, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Indonesia
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to explore students^ attitudes towards STEM Project-Based Learning (STEM-PjBL) through a hydraulic jack project related to the topic of pressure. This study employed a descriptive method, involving 32 ninth-grade students from junior high schools in Pasaman Regency, West Sumatra, Indonesia. The students were selected using convenience sampling techniques. Data were collected through a questionnaire after the implementation of STEM-PjBL. The questionnaire covered students^ attitudes toward five STEM-PjBL indicators: self-regulated learning, collaborative learning environment, interdisciplinary learning environment, technology-based learning, and hands-on activity. The results showed that the average score of students^ attitudes toward STEM-PjBL was 4.31 on a scale of 5.00, indicating a high level of agreement. The average scores for each indicator were Self regulated learning (4.22), Collaborative learning environment (4.44), Interdisciplinary learning environment (4.31), Technology-based learning (4.19), and Hands-on activity (4.41). Based on gender, male students had an average score of 4.08 (high) and female students had an average score of 4.42 (high). The most dominant reasons students enjoy STEM are working in teams and gaining new knowledge. Furthermore, students stated they had no reason not to enjoy STEM learning.
Keywords: attitude toward STEM, STEM-PjBL, pressure, simple hydraulic jack
