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Science lessons in primary school significantly contribute to the early development of logical, scientific and systematic reasoning skills.   However, learning science can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding abstract concepts and cause-and-effect interactions.   This is due to the fact that, as per Piaget's theory, primary school students are still in the concrete operational stage and have limited cognitive growth. Data regarding abstraction ability and causal reasoning in the context of science education were collected from various scientific sources using the literature review research methodology.  According to the research findings, STEAM integration, project-based learning strategies such as Project Based Learning (PBL), and the use of real and visual aids can help lower learning barriers. Successful learning is also influenced by the teacher's role as facilitator, which involves presenting the material in a relevant and contextualized way and fostering a positive learning environment. Real-world examples and exceptional examples, such as the use of worksheets based on cause-and-effect relationships and basic experiments, demonstrate how useful these strategies are for improving abstract thinking and understanding of cause-and-effect relationships. Developing innovative teaching methods based on practical, exploratory and integrative experiments is essential for maximizing the scientific understanding of primary school students.

This study aims to determine the effect of implementing the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model on student learning outcomes in the Ignition System competency at SMKN 1 Katapang. The background of this study stems from the low understanding of students regarding the ignition system material due to the dominant use of the Teacher-Centered Learning (TCL) model, which tends to make students passive and only memorize concepts without understanding the overall working process. PBL is considered more relevant because it emphasizes real problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and analysis according to constructivist theory. The method used is a quasi-experiment with a Nonequivalent Control Group Design. The research subjects consist of two classes of 11th-grade Light Vehicle Engineering students: an experimental group using the PBL model and a control group using TCL, with a total population of 70 students. Data collection was done through pretests and posttests using a validated multiple-choice objective test instrument. Data analysis includes comparing the learning outcome improvements of both groups to determine the effectiveness of PBL. The results show a more significant improvement in learning outcomes in the class using the PBL model compared to the TCL class. This proves that the implementation of PBL is effective in improving analysis skills and diagnostic skills in the ignition system. Therefore, PBL is recommended as a more suitable teaching model for practice-based subjects in vocational schools, especially in automotive electrical competencies.

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model integrated with Canva in improving students’ reflective thinking skills in the Aqidah Akhlaq subject at MTsN 3 Tuban. Reflective thinking is an essential competency that enables students to analyze moral behavior, evaluate decision-making processes, and connect Islamic ethical concepts with real-life experiences. However, preliminary observations indicated that students’ reflective thinking skills were still low and tended to remain at the level of theoretical understanding without deeper analysis. This research employed a pre-experimental design using a one-group pretest–posttest model. The subjects consisted of 30 eighth-grade students. The research instrument was a reflective thinking test developed based on indicators of moral evaluation, situation analysis, and experiential reflection, which had been validated through expert judgment. The learning process was conducted by applying the stages of Problem Based Learning integrated with Canva as a visual media to organize problem-solving steps and present students’ reflective outputs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a paired samples t-test. The findings showed a significant improvement in students’ reflective thinking skills after participating in PBL learning supported by Canva. Pretest scores ranged from 48 to 71 with an average of 59.67, while posttest scores increased to a range of 60 to 89 with an average of 71.20. The mean gain of 11.53 points was statistically significant as indicated by the t-test results (t = 10.39; sig. = 0.000), further supported by Cohen’s d value of 1.90, which falls into the category of a very large effect size. Qualitatively, students demonstrated enhanced abilities in identifying core problems, analyzing alternative actions, evaluating their cognitive processes, and visualizing moral reflections systematically through Canva. In conclusion, the PBL model integrated with Canva is effective in improving students’ reflective thinking skills in the Aqidah Akhlaq subject. This model not only enhances academic outcomes but also strengthens character development, creativity, and higher-order thinking skills, which are essential for 21st-century learning.

Education in the modern era requires students not only to master cognitive knowledge, but also to have the ability to think critically, analytically, creatively, and problem solving skills independently. Therefore, the application of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model and the Learning Strategy for Improving Thinking Ability (SPPKB) is considered relevant and ideal in the context of Christian Religious Education (PAK) to integrate faith values with the reality of daily life. This study uses a literature study method by examining scientific journals, books, and academic articles to analyze the definition, essence, characteristics, and steps of PBL which include the introduction of authentic cases, problem solving, investigation planning, independent learning, solution synthesis, presentation of results, and reflection. PBL has proven to be effective in increasing learning motivation, collaboration, and internalization of Christian moral values, although it has limitations in the relatively long time requirement and the demands of teacher competence as facilitators. Meanwhile, SPPKB emphasizes intellectual stimulus, exploration of ideas, data processing, in-depth analysis, and metacognitive reflection to form a systematic and independent mindset in dealing with religious ethical issues. These two student-centered learning strategies complement each other in forming students who are dynamic, reflective, critical, and responsible as Christian personalities through flexible and contextual learning adaptations in PAK.

This study discusses the development of thematic teaching materials in elementary schools to improve the quality of learning in accordance with the 2013 Curriculum. The research method used is research and development with the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). The results show that the thematic teaching materials developed with approaches such as Project Based Learning (PjBL), Problem Based Learning (PBL), and Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) can enhance students' critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility skills. The integration of local wisdom values as well as the use of digital and contextual teaching materials make learning more engaging, interactive, and meaningful. The thematic teaching materials based on these innovative learning models can help students develop 21st-century skills. Thus, the development of thematic teaching materials based on innovative models is an effective strategy for creating quality learning in elementary schools that is relevant to curriculum demands and the needs of today's learners. The use of technology and contextual approaches enriches students' learning experiences, making them more relevant and beneficial in daily life.

. Eco-print is a technique for printing leaf and flower motifs on fabric by utilizing natural materials derived from the surrounding environment. This technique is not only environmentally friendly but also encourages artistic exploration and the sustainable use of natural resources in art education. The method applied in this activity is a project-based learning approach, in which students are actively and collaboratively involved throughout the entire process of artistic creation. The learning stages include the introduction of eco-print concepts, the collection and selection of natural materials, color experimentation, the motif printing process, and the presentation and reflection of the final artworks. The results indicate that students experience improvements in creativity, particularly in imaginative ability, willingness to experiment, problem-solving skills, and aesthetic sensitivity to form and color. In addition, this learning activity contributes to strengthening environmental awareness, care for nature, and the introduction of local wisdom through the use of natural materials. Therefore, the implementation of eco-print and natural dye art has proven to be an effective and innovative learning medium that supports the holistic development of students’ creativity, character, and environmental awareness.