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This study aims to analyze the improvement of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) through mathematics learning on the Three-Dimensional Geometry topic in Grade XII of Yayasan Pendidikan Al-Fattah Medan. HOTS is a crucial aspect of 21st-century education because it helps students develop critical, creative, logical, and reflective thinking skills in addressing complex problems. In the context of mathematics learning, particularly in spatial geometry, mastering HOTS not only supports students in understanding abstract concepts but also in applying them to real-life situations. This study employed a descriptive qualitative method with instruments consisting of a pre-test, post-test, and an open-ended questionnaire to explore students’ understanding and learning experiences. The findings revealed a significant improvement, where the average pre-test score of 7 increased to 52.21 in the post-test. This result highlights that the implementation of HOTS-based learning strategies is effective in enhancing students’ comprehension of distance, angles, and point positions in space, while simultaneously strengthening their analytical, evaluative, and creative abilities. The study implies the importance of adopting innovative learning strategies oriented toward HOTS development to improve the quality of mathematics education and prepare students for global challenges.

This study focuses on the analysis of students' learning experiences through artificial volcanic eruption experiments in understanding the material of changes in the state of matter at MI Miftahul Ulum. The problem underlying this study is the difficulty students have in learning the abstract concept of changes in state, so a learning strategy based on real experiences is needed. The artificial volcanic eruption experiment was chosen because it is able to show the process of changes in the state of matter through simple chemical reactions in an interesting and easy-to-understand way. The method used is qualitative research with a descriptive approach. The subjects of the study were fifth-grade students of MI Miftahul Ulum. Data were obtained through observation, interviews, and documentation, then analyzed using the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study showed that the implementation of the artificial volcanic eruption experiment created a meaningful learning experience for students. Students appeared more enthusiastic, active, and easily grasped the concept of changes in the state of matter because they experienced the change process directly. In addition, this experiment also fostered students' curiosity, cooperation, and scientific attitudes in learning activities. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the artificial volcanic eruption experiment is an effective learning medium to strengthen the learning experience while improving students' understanding of the material of changes in the state of matter.

This study aims to describe students’ mathematical problem-solving abilities on the topic of Systems of Linear Equations in Two Variables (SPLDV) based on Polya’s problem-solving stages in relation to their levels of self-efficacy. The research employed a descriptive qualitative approach with three ninth-grade students from SMP Negeri 5 Gresik in the 2024/2025 academic year, selected through purposive sampling to represent high, medium, and low levels of self-efficacy. Data were collected using a self-efficacy questionnaire, problem-solving tests consisting of two contextual essay items on SPLDV, and semi-structured interviews. Data analysis followed the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldana, encompassing data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing, referring to Polya’s four stages: understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back. The results revealed that students with high self-efficacy were able to complete all four stages comprehensively and reflectively, demonstrating systematic and accurate reasoning. Students with medium self-efficacy successfully performed the first three stages but failed to verify their final results, while students with low self-efficacy only reached the stage of understanding the problem and struggled to plan or execute solutions. In conclusion, the level of self-efficacy influences students’ mathematical problem-solving performance, particularly in terms of strategic accuracy, procedural precision, and reflective evaluation.

This research aims to enhance students' English technical competence by implementing Problem-Based Learning (PBL) for the English for Mechanical Engineering course at Politeknik Negeri Fakfak. However, the setting of this research is rooted in students' difficulties in understanding technical terms and applying English in engineering work environments. Implementing a participatory action research model with descriptive qualitative approaches, the research was conducted among 50 students of two classes. Data were collected through questionnaires, observations, and interviews. The findings showed that 88% of students perceived the learning material as highly relevant, 84% reported improved mastery over technical vocabulary, and 90% reported greater collaboration and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, the intervention fostered active learning behaviors, peer leadership, and a positive shift towards more favorable attitudes among students towards English as a professional tool. These findings confirm that PBL is a valuable approach to English language learning contextualization in the vocational education context, enhancing the development of both language and soft skills. The research proposes wider implementation of PBL across technical curricula to improve educational outcomes in correspondence with industry requirements.

This research was motivated by the lack of teaching materials that align with the characteristics and needs of students. One of the main issues identified is the use of learning modules that are not yet adapted to local culture and fail to provide meaningful learning experiences. To address this problem, the researcher developed a culturally based module inspired by Minangkabau songket. This study employed a Research and Development (R&D) design following the development stages proposed by Sugiyono. The results show that the developed module achieved a validity level of 82.58% (categorized as very valid), a practicality level of 87.6% (very practical), and an effectiveness level of 83.3% (very effective). Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the ethnomathematics-based module on Minangkabau songket for Phase F of the Health Department at SMAN 1 Lareh Sago Halaban in the 2023/2024 academic year meets the criteria of being valid, practical, and effective. Therefore, it is considered suitable for use as a culturally contextual teaching material that integrates local values into the learning process.

Education is a crucial foundation for shaping a generation with strong character, faith, intelligence, and responsibility as mandated by Law Number 20 of 2003. In the 21st century, one of the most essential competencies to be developed is critical thinking, which can be effectively nurtured through Project Based Learning (PjBL). This approach actively engages students in planning, inquiry, problem-solving, and reflection within project-based tasks, making learning more meaningful. This study examines the effect of PjBL on the critical thinking skills of fifth-grade students in Natural and Social Sciences (IPAS) at SD Islam Istiqomah, Ungaran Barat, Semarang Regency. Employing a quantitative method with a quasi-experimental Nonequivalent Control Group Design, the study involved 76 students divided into experimental and control groups. Data were collected using a validated and reliable essay test on critical thinking skills. Results showed that the experimental group achieved a higher mean posttest score (84.16) than the control group (74.74). The point-biserial correlation was rpb = 0.676, and the t-test result (tcount 7.891 > ttable 1.993, p < 0.05) confirmed a significant difference. These findings demonstrate that PjBL substantially improves students’ critical thinking and emphasize its continued implementation to foster contextual and meaningful IPAS learning.

This study was conducted at TK Negeri Lebiti, Togean District, Tojo Una-una Regency, Central Sulawesi, with the aim of determining the effect of the demonstration method on the social interaction skills of early childhood students. The background of this research is based on the importance of developing children’s social abilities from an early age through learning activities that involve direct participation and interaction. The main problem examined in this study is whether the demonstration method significantly influences the improvement of children’s social interaction skills. This research employed a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design. The sample consisted of two classes of children aged 4–6 years, comprising 12 children in the experimental class and 20 children in the control class, making a total of 32 participants. The experimental class was taught using the demonstration method, while the control class used conventional learning methods. Data were collected through observation and assessment of children’s social behaviors during learning activities. The collected data were analyzed using statistical techniques to test the research hypothesis. The findings are expected to provide empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of the demonstration method in improving children’s social interaction skills within the context of early childhood education.

This study aims to determine the differences in problem-solving and critical thinking skills between students taught using the Reciprocal Teaching and Problem-Based Learning models in class X of SMK Ki Hajar Dewantara Kotapinang for the 2021-2022 academic year. This is a quantitative study using a quasi-experimental design. The population consists of all class X students at SMK Ki Hajar Dewantara Kotapinang in the 2021-2022 academic year, totaling 111 students. The sample used was class X AKUNTANSI 1 and X AKUNTANSI 2, each consisting of 20 students, chosen as experimental classes using Cluster Random Sampling. Data were collected from pre-tests and post-tests with problem-solving and critical thinking skill test items, then analyzed descriptively and followed by Two-Way ANOVA. The findings indicate: 1) There is no difference in problem-solving ability between students taught using the Reciprocal Teaching model and the Problem-Based Learning model in class X of SMK Ki Hajar Dewantara Kotapinang, with F_observed = 0.320 < F_table(α= 0.05) = 3.978; 2) There is a difference in critical thinking skills between students taught using the Reciprocal Teaching model and the Problem-Based Learning model in class X of SMK Ki Hajar Dewantara Kotapinang, with F_observed = 5.128 > F_table(α= 0.05) = 3.978; 3) There is a difference in both problem-solving and critical thinking skills between students taught using the Reciprocal Teaching model and the Problem-Based Learning model in class X of SMK Ki Hajar Dewantara Kotapinang, with F_observed = 0.026 > F_table(α= 0.05) = 3.936; 4) There is no interaction between the Reciprocal Teaching and Problem-Based Learning models in class X of SMK Ki Hajar Dewantara Kotapinang, with F_observed = 0.459 < F_table(α= 0.05) = 3.936.

Boredom during the learning process often becomes a significant barrier to students’ motivation and engagement, especially in vocational education settings. This phenomenon was also observed at SMKS Muhammadiyah 9 Medan, where some students demonstrated a lack of interest and active participation during learning activities. This study aims to analyze how the implementation of active learning strategies can reduce boredom and improve the quality of classroom interaction. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with teachers and students, direct classroom observations, and supporting documentation. The data were analyzed inductively using thematic analysis to identify emerging patterns, trends, and meanings from teaching practices. The findings reveal that the application of active learning strategies—such as group discussions, project-based learning, problem solving, and the use of interactive learning media—positively impacts the learning process. These strategies not only enhance participation and learning motivation but also foster collaboration among students, improve teacher–student communication, and develop critical and social thinking skills. Furthermore, the classroom atmosphere becomes more dynamic, enjoyable, and participatory, significantly reducing learning boredom. Therefore, active learning strategies are proven to be relevant and effective in creating engaging, interactive, and meaningful learning experiences for students at SMKS Muhammadiyah 9 Medan. This research provides practical implications for teachers in selecting appropriate learning approaches to achieve educational goals more effectively.

This study investigates the implementation of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model integrated with animated video media to enhance student motivation, creativity, and learning outcomes in economics at MA Salafiyah. Employing a classroom action research approach with a pretest-posttest design, the research involved 35 grade XI students. Data were collected through observation sheets, motivation and creativity questionnaires, and learning outcome tests. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to assess data normality, while the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test evaluated the significance of differences between pretest and posttest scores. The findings reveal that the application of PBL with animated video media significantly improves student motivation, creativity, and learning outcomes. Students demonstrated increased engagement, generated more creative ideas, and showed deeper understanding of economic concepts. Motivation was reflected in higher posttest scores and active participation, while creativity was evident in the ability to propose innovative solutions and think critically. Learning outcomes improved substantially, with average scores rising from 46.142 (pretest) to 83.571 (posttest). The integration of animated video media in PBL created a dynamic and interactive learning environment that facilitated comprehension, stimulated interest, and encouraged practical application of knowledge. This study concludes that PBL supported by animated video media is an effective pedagogical strategy for improving educational quality in economics learning.

This study aims to improve student learning outcomes through the implementation of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model assisted by PowerPoint media in Mathematics for Grade I students at SD IT Riyadhoturrohman. The research employs Classroom Action Research (CAR) conducted in two cycles. Each cycle consists of three meetings, following the stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The research subjects were 16 students from Grade I of SD IT Riyadhoturrohman. The Problem Based Learning model was chosen because it encouraged students to be actively involved in learning through solving contextual problems, while PowerPoint media was used to help visualize the mathematical concepts being taught. The results showed an improvement in students' learning outcomes from the pre-action stage to Cycle I, and a further increase in Cycle II. Additionally, students demonstrated improved participation, conceptual understanding, and teamwork skills. Thus, the implementation of the Problem Based Learning model assisted by PowerPoint media proved to be effective in improving the mathematics learning outcomes of Grade I students at SD IT Riyadhoturrohman.

This study aims to analyze the application of SSPBLS (Socio-Scientific Problem based Learning with Spiritual Value) on digestive system materials at SMA Muhammadiyah 1 Sragen for the academic year 2024/2025 and to find out whether this model can improve student learning outcomes. The type of research used is quantitative with experimental design. Data collection was carried out through learning outcome tests, observations, and interviews. Based on the results of the t-test, a significance value (sig.) of 0.22 was obtained, which was more than 0.05, which showed that there was no significant difference between the experimental group using the SSPBLS model and the control group using conventional learning methods. The results of this study show that the application of the SSPBLS model to the digestive system material in terms of final average scores can improve student learning outcomes. These results show that SSPBLS has the potential to improve student understanding through a problem-based approach that connects scientific phenomena with social issues, and its application in the field has met expectations. This research contributes to enriching contextual learning approaches through the application of the SSPBLS model which is proven to improve student learning outcomes by integrating social issues, critical thinking skills, and character values and provides alternative effective learning strategies to improve learning outcomes, with an emphasis on students' active involvement in solving problems based on social issues.

This study aims to describe the implementation of an active learning model based on collaboration to improve students’ conceptual understanding in Islamic Religious Education (PAI). The background of this research stems from the low level of student engagement in the learning process, which has resulted in less optimal understanding of religious concepts. The research employed a qualitative approach with a classroom action research (CAR) design conducted in two cycles. The subjects were eleventh-grade students at a senior high school in City X. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and conceptual understanding tests. The findings revealed that the implementation of the collaborative active learning model increased students’ participation in learning activities, fostered critical thinking skills, and enhanced their conceptual understanding of Islamic Education materials. Through group discussions, problem-solving activities, and reflection sessions, students became more cognitively and affectively engaged in the learning process. Therefore, the collaborative active learning model can serve as an effective alternative strategy to improve both the process and outcomes of Islamic Religious Education learning.

Critical thinking ability is one of the important competencies that students must possess in biology learning. This research aims to develop Problem-Based Learning (PBL) Student Worksheets to train students' critical thinking skills in Plant Anatomy courses. This research uses the Research and Development method with a simplified 4-D model consisting of three stages: Define, Design, and Develop. The research subjects were second-semester Biology Education Study Program students at Universitas Muhammadiyah Bengkulu. Research instruments included media and material expert validation sheets, as well as student response questionnaires. Validation was conducted by one media expert and one material expert, then tested on 5 students (limited trial) and 22 students (extensive trial). Validation results showed that the student worksheets received a "very valid" category with 86% from media experts and 88% from material experts. Practicality tests showed "very practical" results with 89% in limited trials and 91% in extensive trials. The developed student worksheets contained contextual problem scenarios, systematic PBL stages, and critical discussion questions that encourage students to analyze, evaluate, and conclude based on empirical data. This research concludes that PBL-based student worksheets are feasible to use as learning media to train students' critical thinking skills in Plant Anatomy courses.

The development of digital media and innovative learning models in Junior High School Science education reflects a sustained commitment to meeting the demands of 21st-century skills and improving the quality of science instruction. A comprehensive literature review (2019–2024) reveals the dominance of the Research and Development (R&D) approach, which consistently yields highly valid, practical, and effective digital resources, such as Augmented Reality (AR), Android-based applications, and interactive educational games. These digital tools are synergistically integrated with modern instructional models, including Problem-Based Learning (PBL), Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL), and Predict-Observe-Explain (POE), which are proven effective in increasing student engagement, enhancing cognitive outcomes, and honing essential competencies such as Science Process Skills (SPS) and Higher-Order Thinking Skills (HOTS). Ultimately, this integration contributes significantly to overcoming learning difficulties in complex and abstract Science topics (e.g., the human digestive system) while also effectively addressing contemporary educational challenges, fostering meaningful learning experiences, and supporting long-term academic success for students.

This classroom action research evaluates the effectiveness of Problem Based Learning in learning Biology on the topic of environmental change at Rosa de Lima Catholic High School Tondano, with the aim of improving the activities and learning outcomes of grade X students. The method used is two action cycles with stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The subjects are 10 students. Tools include Teaching Modules and Student Worksheets; Data was collected through observation sheets of teacher and student activities (scales 1–4) and 10-item learning outcome tests each cycle. The descriptive analysis calculates the grade average and classical completeness against the Minimum Completeness Criterion of 75. The results showed consistent improvement from cycle I to cycle II. Classical completeness increased from 66% (6 out of 9 students attended; average 76.67) to 90% (9 out of 10 students; average 81.00). The teacher's activity observation score increased from 3.75 to 3.91, while the student's activity from 3.50 to 3.60. The increase is fueled by the formulation of contextual problems, facilitation of guiding questions, individualized feedback, and more disciplined time management, which strengthens engagement, collaboration, and scientific reasoning. The findings indicate that Problem Based Learning is effective in improving Biology learning activities and outcomes on the topic of environmental change. This study adds to the empirical evidence in the context of high schools with low initial completeness and suggests further exploration of other Biology topics along with measurements of critical thinking skills and scientific attitudes for a more comprehensive picture of impact.

Active and innovative learning is crucial in improving students' critical thinking skills, especially in science learning at the elementary level. The Problem Based Learning (PBL) model is an effective approach to stimulate critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving skills in fifth-grade students. This study aims to describe the implementation of the PBL model in science learning to improve fifth-grade students' critical thinking skills. The approach used is a literature study by collecting data from various written sources such as scientific journals and relevant publications regarding the application of technology and innovative learning models. The results of this study indicate that the implementation of the PBL model can increase students' learning motivation and critical thinking skills, while also assisting teachers in creating an interesting and enjoyable learning atmosphere. Thus, the PBL model can be an effective solution in developing students' higher-order thinking competencies in an educational era that demands creativity and innovation.

This study was motivated by the need to improve the quality of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) learning so that it does not only focus on delivering material but also encourages students to actively build understanding through higher-order thinking processes. Traditional teacher-centered learning tends to limit students' analytical, evaluative, and creative abilities. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the use of Active Learning in IRE and its relationship with the development of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS). The method used was library research with a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach, which involved identifying, selecting, and synthesizing various relevant literature from the last ten years. The results of the study showed that Active Learning was implemented through various strategies such as problem-based learning, project-based learning, think-pair-share, the use of digital technology, and collaborative discussions. These strategies shift the focus of learning from the teacher to the students so that they can construct knowledge through dialogue, reflection, and problem solving. The findings also show that this approach has a direct influence on the development of HOTS, especially the ability to analyze religious issues, evaluate arguments based on arguments, and create contextual solutions in learning situations. In addition to improving cognitive abilities, Active Learning has an impact on increasing learning motivation, courage to ask questions, active involvement, and the quality of students' social interactions. The implications of this study confirm that PAI learning needs to integrate Active Learning strategies.

The implementation of teaching and learning activities in Indonesia is guided by the Curriculum. The curriculum is developed and refined in line with the rapid development of science and technology and the evolution of society. In the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, major changes have occurred in the world of education, especially in Indonesia, with a shift from direct learning in classrooms to distance education based on digital technology. The aim of this research is to analyze the effect of implementing the Independent Curriculum at SDN 060826 Kec. Medan Area. Through this approach, it is hoped to obtain a clearer picture of the effectiveness of the curriculum in improving the quality of education as well as identifying obstacles and opportunities that arise in its implementation. This research uses a descriptive qualitative method to analyze the effect of implementing the Merdeka Curriculum at SDN 060826 Kec. Medan Area. Research conducted by researchers at SDN 060826 Kec. Medan Area, it can be seen that they always regularly attend training from both the principal and teachers and to strengthen teachers' understanding of the Independent Learning Curriculum, teachers always hold monthly meetings with the Teacher Working Group (KKG) to resolve various problems related to the Independent Learning Curriculum. as well as to increase teacher competence in the process of teaching and learning activities.

Biology education in high school has an important role in shaping students' science literacy and critical thinking skills. However, ecological material, particularly the topic of Ecosystem Components and their Interactions, is often considered difficult because it is abstract and not easy to observe directly. This research aims to improve student learning outcomes through the application of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model, which emphasizes real problem-solving, collaborative discussion, and active involvement in the learning process. The research uses the design of Classroom Action Research (PTK) which was carried out in two cycles in class X of St. Rosa de Lima Catholic High School Tondano involving 10 students in the odd semester of the 2025/2026 school year. Data was collected through observation of teacher and student activities, learning outcome tests in the form of pretests and posttests, and learning documentation. The analysis was carried out descriptively, qualitatively, and quantitatively by calculating the average score, percentage of completion, and student involvement. The results of the study showed a significant increase. The percentage of teacher activity increased from 58.3% in the first cycle to 87.5% in the second cycle, while student activity increased from 45.83% to 83.33%. The average score of students also increased from 70% in cycle I to 90% in cycle II, with classical completeness reaching 90%. These findings confirm the effectiveness of PBL as a contextual Biology learning strategy, able to bridge ecological concepts with real life, and increase students' curiosity, cooperation, and critical thinking skills.