Application of Problem Based Learning Model to Improve Students' Critical Thinking Skills

Abstract

The background of this classroom action research is due to low critical thinking skills in learning. The purpose of the study was to improve students' critical thinking skills by using the Problem Based Learning model. This class action research was carried out according to the model of Kemmis & Mc. Targgart. The research process is carried out in two cycles, each cycle there are two learnings. The stages of each cycle are planning, execution, observation, and reflection. The instruments used are post-test to determine critical thinking skills and observation sheets to determine teacher activities, student activities and student responses to the application of the Problem Based Learning model. The object of research is grade IV elementary school students in one of the cities of Yogyakarta. The result of this study is that students' critical thinking skills increased from the initial condition (pre-cycle) which is 43.2 (less category) to 80.25 (good category) at the end of cycle II condition. The conclusion of these results is that the application of the Problem Based Learning learning model can improve students' critical thinking skills.