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This study was conducted to analyze the relationship between students’ critical thinking skills and mathematical problem-solving abilities through a literature review approach. The study is based on the importance of mastering higher-order thinking skills in the mathematics learning process, particularly when students are faced with complex problems related to real-life situations. The method used in this research was a literature review by examining various relevant scientific journals and academic books published between 2021 and 2026. The data analysis process was carried out through stages of identification, classification, evaluation, and synthesis of the collected sources. The findings revealed a significant and positive relationship between critical thinking skills and students’ mathematical problem-solving abilities. Critical thinking skills play an important role in helping students understand problems, process and analyze information, select appropriate solution strategies, and systematically review the results obtained. Students with strong critical thinking skills generally demonstrate more optimal mathematical problem-solving abilities. In addition, the implementation of learning models such as Problem-Based Learning and contextual approaches has been considered effective in improving both abilities. Therefore, critical thinking skills are regarded as an essential aspect that needs to be developed in mathematics learning in order to enhance students’ mathematical problem-solving abilities.

History learning plays a strategic role in developing students’ critical, analytical, and reflective thinking skills. However, instructional practices that still emphasize memorization of facts often fail to foster higher-order thinking abilities. This article aims to examine the implementation of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS)-based history learning as an effort to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4, namely quality education. The HOTS approach in history learning emphasizes students’ abilities to analyze, evaluate, and create through activities such as interpreting historical sources, solving contextual problems, and engaging in critical discussions of past events. The method used in this study is a literature review by analyzing various sources related to HOTS-based learning strategies and their implementation in history education. The findings indicate that the application of HOTS enhances student engagement, deepens conceptual understanding, and fosters historical awareness relevant to contemporary life. In addition, HOTS-based learning encourages students to develop reflective thinking and make better-informed decisions. The implementation of HOTS in history learning aligns with the principles of SDG 4, which emphasize inclusive, equitable, and quality education. Therefore, integrating HOTS into history instruction not only improves the quality of the learning process but also contributes to the development of a generation that is critical, creative, and adaptive in facing global challenges.

Education plays an important role in shaping the quality of human resources, particularly in developing students' critical thinking skills. In the learning process at school, teachers not only act as providers of information but also as facilitators who are able to create active, creative, and participatory learning environments. However, in practice, the learning process is still often dominated by one-way lecture methods, which tend to make students passive and less involved in the learning process. This condition affects the development of students’ critical thinking skills. Therefore, learning strategies that actively involve students are needed, one of which is through the implementation of Problem Based Learning (PBL).This study aims to analyze the strategies used by Islamic Religious Education teachers in implementing Problem Based Learning and its impact on students’ critical thinking skills at SMA Pembangunan V YAPIS Waena. This research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive research design. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation, while data analysis used the Miles and Huberman model which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing.The results of the study indicate that the implementation of Problem Based Learning is carried out through several stages, including presenting problems related to daily life, group discussions, problem analysis, and the presentation of discussion results by students. The implementation of this learning model increases students’ activeness in the learning process and encourages the development of critical thinking skills, such as identifying problems, analyzing information, expressing opinions, and drawing logical conclusions. Therefore, Problem Based Learning can be considered an effective learning strategy for improving students’ critical thinking skills in Islamic Religious Education learning.

This study aims to analyze the obstacles in Social Studies (IPS) learning related to global issues influenced by technological advancement through a literature review method. Social Studies plays an essential role in shaping students’ understanding of social, economic, cultural, and political life while fostering global awareness in the digital era. However, in practice, IPS learning often faces various challenges that reduce its effectiveness and attractiveness. One of the main problems is students ’low interestin IPS, as it is often perceived as boring and overly theoretical, combined with the influence of technology that diverts students’ attention toward digital entertainment. Other contributing factors include non-interactive teaching methods, limited learning facilities, unconducive classroom environments, and a lack of parental support. Through a comprehensive literature review, this study found that relevant strategies to overcome these issues include Project-Based Learning, Technology Integration, and Contextual Approaches. These strategies enable students to learn actively, critically, and collaboratively by linking IPS material to global issues and real-world phenomena. The recommended solutions include implementing project-based education, utilizing interactive digital media, and fostering intercultural dialogue within the learning process. The results of this study are expected to provide theoretical contributions to the development of adaptive IPS learning models in response to technological progress, as well as practical benefits for teachers, schools, and policymakers in creating Social Studies learning that is engaging, meaningful, and relevant to the global challenges of the 21st century.

This study examines the role of mathematics learning in improving logical thinking skills in early childhood. The background of this study is based on the importance of logical thinking skills as a foundation for children's cognitive development, which can begin at an early age through appropriate mathematics learning. The purpose of this study is to analyze how mathematics learning can stimulate the development of logical thinking in early childhood and explore effective learning strategies. The methods used are library research and observation of several models of mathematics learning for early childhood in early childhood education institutions. The findings indicate that fun and concrete activity-based mathematics learning can improve children's abilities in critical thinking, constructing patterns, drawing conclusions, and solving simple problems. The implications of this study emphasize the need for the application of creative and interactive mathematics learning methods to support the development of logical thinking from an early age, while also encouraging educators to integrate mathematics into children's daily activities. This study also recommends the development of learning media appropriate to children's developmental stages for optimal results.

This research examines the implementation of the Deep Learning approach in Islamic Religious Education (PAI) learning at SMAN 61 Jakarta and its contribution to the development of students' critical thinking skills. This study was conducted due to the need for a learning model that encourages students to understand religious concepts through active, reflective, and meaningful learning experiences. The purpose of this research is to describe the implementation of Deep Learning in PAI learning and its influence on the development of students' critical thinking skills. This study employs a qualitative method with a descriptive research design, using interviews, classroom observations, and documentation as data collection techniques. The findings indicate that the Deep Learning approach supports students in participating more actively in discussions, analyzing religious issues related to real-life situations, and constructing arguments based on their own understanding. Students also demonstrate improvement in evaluating information, considering diverse perspectives, and providing more reflective responses to classroom problems. The study further identifies several challenges, including limited digital facilities, varying levels of student participation, and teachers’ readiness in managing diverse learning strategies and media. These findings suggest that Deep Learning has strong potential to enhance students’ critical thinking skills when applied systematically and designed to foster active participation and meaningful exploration during the learning process.

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.

Real analysis is one of the main branches of mathematics that serves as a fundamental foundation for the development of science and technology. This study emphasizes the understanding of basic concepts such as real numbers, limits, continuity, the principle of mathematical induction, as well as deductive and axiomatic approaches as a strong framework for mathematical proofs. This research employs the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method by examining articles and journals related to both the theoretical aspects and the implementation of real analysis in solving mathematical problems. The findings indicate that the application of Polya’s method, visualization through demonstration, and the use of modern technology such as augmented reality (AR) can enhance the effectiveness of real analysis learning. These approaches help students connect abstract concepts with real applications, thereby strengthening logical, systematic, critical, and rigorous thinking skills. However, several learning difficulties are also identified, including the complexity of the material, weak learning habits, social influences, and inappropriate teaching strategies. Therefore, more applicative, interactive, and contextual learning strategies are needed to support the achievement of learning objectives. The conclusion of this review highlights that the integration of theoretical understanding, problem-solving methods, and innovative technology is a strategic step to improve students’ thinking quality in real analysis courses. Thus, real analysis is not only positioned as a theoretical subject but also as a medium for developing problem-solving abilities and higher-order thinking skills that are relevant to both academic needs and real-world applications.

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 research is a library study aimed at analyzing the various reasons for curriculum changes in Indonesia. Curriculum evaluation plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and relevance of education by adapting to the dynamic changes in society. It helps identify the strengths and weaknesses of the curriculum and provides recommendations for improvement. However, several problems arise during implementation, particularly when teachers feel the time allocated to adapt to the new curriculum is insufficient, coupled with gaps in school facilities that make the implementation appear forced. The evaluation focuses on several key aspects: content, learning strategies, media, student learning outcomes, and teacher readiness, as teachers are the main drivers of knowledge transfer in the classroom. The qualitative descriptive approach, in the form of library research, collects data through systematic reviews, analysis stages, and information extraction from various sources. Over the course of the education system in Indonesia, from 1947 to 2024, the curriculum has undergone numerous changes. While these changes aim to improve the learning process and achieve optimal educational quality, they have had both positive and negative impacts. The influence of political agendas and the priorities of the ruling government have significantly shaped these curriculum changes. Despite these challenges, the rationale behind the changes lies in the effort to improve the learning experience and keep educational content up to date, reflecting the needs of the times. In conclusion, curriculum changes are essential to maintaining educational relevance, but proper preparation, sufficient time for adaptation, and adequate facilities are critical to the successful implementation of these changes. The research highlights the ongoing struggle to balance educational reforms with practical considerations for educators and students alike.

Using Newman's Error Analysis (NEA) as a framework, this study will examine the many ways in which MAN 3 Medan students blunder while answering problems involving logarithms and exponentials. A total of thirty-one MIPA class X students served as subjects for this qualitative descriptive study. Essay tests, interviews with math instructors, and records of student work all contributed to the data set. Data analysis involves reducing, presenting, and making conclusions while triangulating sources to ensure the data is legitimate. According to the research, the two most common points of mistake are when people are trying to grasp the issue and when they are trying to convert it. This is because pupils have a hard time grasping the characteristics and fundamental ideas of logarithms and have a habit of rote memorization rather than critical thinking. Other factors that also affect include the lack of utilization of learning media and low student learning motivation. After being given discussion-based learning and interactive media, the post-test results showed an increase in comprehension and a decrease in conceptual errors. This research recommends that teachers should emphasize student-centered learning by strengthening basic concepts and implementing contextual problem-solving strategies.

This study aims to describe students' critical thinking skills in solving numeracy literacy problems by considering their mathematical dispositions. Critical thinking skills are an important competency in 21st-century learning because they play a significant role in understanding concepts, analyzing information, and solving problems with a logical and systematic approach. Numeracy literacy, as part of basic mathematical competencies, requires students not only to be able to calculate but also to understand the context and apply mathematical concepts in real life. In this context, mathematical disposition—which includes self-confidence in mathematics, persistence in solving problems, and curiosity—is seen as a factor that influences students' critical thinking skills. This study used a descriptive qualitative approach with student subjects selected based on high, medium, and low mathematical disposition categories. The instruments used consisted of a numeracy literacy test and a semi-structured interview guide. Data were collected through completing a mathematical disposition questionnaire, working on numeracy literacy problems, and in-depth interviews with selected subjects. Data analysis techniques included data reduction, data presentation, and inductive conclusion drawing. The results of the study indicate that students with a high mathematical disposition tend to have more developed critical thinking skills. They are able to analyze problems in depth, evaluate relevant information, and draw logical and structured conclusions. Conversely, students with medium and low dispositions tend to have limited critical thinking skills, particularly in the aspects of evaluation and conclusion drawing. This finding emphasizes the importance of strengthening mathematical dispositions as an integral part of learning strategies to improve students' critical thinking skills in the context of numeracy literacy.

This study aims to improve the critical thinking skills of fourth-grade elementary school students in understanding the concept of fractions through the application of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model. The background of this study focuses on students' still low abilities in: (1) analyzing mathematical problems; (2) planning solution strategies; (3) drawing logical conclusions when working on fraction problems. This study uses the Classroom Action Research (CAR) design model Kemmis & McTaggart which was implemented at SD Negeri 2 Tahunan during the even semester of the 2024/2025 academic year. The research subjects consisted of 23 fourth-grade students who were selected purposively based on the results of the initial diagnosis. Data collection techniques were carried out by triangulation through: (1) formative evaluation tests; (2) participatory observation sheets; (3) learning video documentation; and (4) field notes. Data were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively with a comparative descriptive approach. The results showed that the application of the PBL model was proven to be effective in improving: (1) students' critical thinking skills on average from 39.13 (low category) to 92.61 (very good category); (2) classical completeness from 8.7% to 91.3%; and (3) learning activities became more meaningful. Statistical analysis of paired sample t-test showed a significant difference (t=19.09; p<0.05) between before and after treatment. Other important findings include: (1) an increase in students' questioning skills by 78%; (2) an increase in the ability to provide arguments by 82%; (3) an increase in problem-solving skills by 85%. In addition, there was an increase in the following aspects: (1) group cooperation; (2) self-confidence; and (3) active involvement in class discussions.

This study investigates the role of transformational leadership of school principals in enhancing the instructional quality of teachers at SMP Negeri 5 Satap Bungoro, Pangkep Regency, Indonesia. The research addresses three main problems: (1) how the principal's transformational leadership contributes to improving teacher performance in the classroom, (2) what strategies or actions the principal undertakes to elevate instructional practices, and (3) what supporting and inhibiting factors influence the process. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through interviews, observation, and documentation involving the school principal and five teachers. The data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, conclusion drawing, and triangulation techniques. The findings reveal that the principal's transformational leadership plays a critical role in instructional improvement, marked by five key practices: presenting an inspiring leadership vision, encouraging professional growth, providing support and empowerment to teachers, fostering a collaborative and inclusive school culture, and delivering constructive feedback and evaluation. The strategies employed include the integration of the Merdeka Curriculum, mentoring and coaching of teachers, and fostering pedagogical understanding. Supporting factors include well-organized school and classroom environments and cleanliness, while the primary obstacles consist of limited funding, inadequate facilities and infrastructure, and a lack of strong teacher collaboration. In conclusion, transformational leadership contributes significantly to teacher development and improved instructional quality, especially in schools facing resource limitations. The study emphasizes the need for proactive leadership to overcome structural barriers and support effective teaching and learning.

The objective of this research is to assess the use of discovery learning techniques in enhancing students' engagement and critical thinking abilities in Pancasila and Citizenship Education courses. Discovery learning is a teaching method that encourages students to learn on their own by observing, exploring, and verifying what they learn. The study's findings suggest that the implementation of discovery learning may enhance students' engagement in debates, facilitate inquiry, and encourage the expression of viewpoints. Also, students' critical thinking abilities became better because they could examine material, come to conclusions, and solve issues in a logical way. However, there were several problems with its use, such as not having enough time, students being at different levels of preparation, and problems with managing the classroom. With careful preparation, good time management, and a lot of help for students, these problems may be solved. The discovery learning technique has been shown to be beneficial in enhancing the quality of learning. It is also particularly useful for helping students become active, critical thinkers who can solve issues on their own.

Pancasila Education is a compulsory subject taught at every level of education, from elementary to higher education, with the aim of shaping students’ attitudes and behaviors based on the values of Pancasila in their daily lives. This study aims to describe the teacher's strategies in implementing the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model to enhance students' critical thinking skills in the Pancasila Education subject for fourth-grade students at SD Negeri 5 Penatih. The research focuses on three main aspects: (1) the implementation of PBL by teachers in improving students’ critical thinking in the topic "Pancasila as the Foundation of My Country", (2) the supporting and inhibiting factors in applying the PBL model, and (3) the implications of PBL implementation on the learning process and outcomes. This study employs a qualitative approach with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and documentation. The findings reveal that the teacher’s strategy in applying PBL involves three key stages: planning (designing contextual and relevant problems), implementation (the teacher acting as a facilitator during group discussions), and evaluation (assessing students’ thinking processes). Supporting factors for the successful application of PBL include teacher competence, student motivation, a conducive learning environment, and curriculum support. On the other hand, limited instructional time and low student participation present challenges that need to be addressed. The implications of PBL implementation include enhanced critical thinking skills, improved collaboration abilities, and the development of student character as reflective, open-minded, and responsible individuals. Learning becomes more engaging, meaningful, and interactive as students are actively involved in solving real-life problems related to their everyday experiences.

This study intends to examine the mathematical literacy skills of elementary school students in solving story problems. The ability to read mathematics includes not only understanding concepts, but also the ability to interpret, reason, and apply mathematics in everyday situations. The focus of this study is useful for evaluating the level of literacy competence of elementary school students. The method used in this study is Literature Review (LR), without direct observation in the field. Data were obtained through the analysis of various literature sources as well as the results of relevant previous research. The results of the study show that elementary school students still face challenges in understanding information in story problems, choosing the right solution strategies, and drawing conclusions from the problems faced. These findings highlight the need for a learning approach that is more focused on developing critical thinking competencies and contextual problem-solving. Learning that prioritizes real context, group discussions, and an emphasis on critical thinking processes is needed to support students in expanding their mathematical literacy skills to the fullest.

This study is a literature review aimed at examining the effectiveness of the guided inquiry model based on STEM in enhancing students’ critical thinking skills. The guided inquiry model provides a structured framework for students to explore problems under teacher guidance, while the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) approach promotes interdisciplinary, contextual, and practical learning. Through an analysis of various relevant articles and scholarly journals, the findings indicate that the implementation of the guided inquiry model integrated with STEM consistently improves students' critical thinking abilities, particularly in areas such as analysis, evaluation, and reasoning. The study also highlights the crucial role of teachers as active facilitators in the learning process and the need for adequate resources to effectively apply this approach. The results of this review are expected to serve as a reference for educators and researchers in developing innovative and 21st-century-oriented learning strategies.

Critical thinking skills are essential for students to be able to analyze, evaluate, and solve problems systematically. However, during learning, many students still have difficulty in developing these skills, which can be caused by less interactive learning methods and the lack of implementation of effective teaching strategies. This study aims to determine the efforts of social studies teachers in improving critical thinking skills of grade VIII students at SMPN 1 Sumbergempol. This study is a type of case study research. Data collection techniques used are observation, interviews and documentation. This study shows that the efforts made by teachers in improving students' critical thinking in social studies learning are to give students a problem and they must solve the problem, in addition, the use of strategies, methods, models, and learning media also have an effect on improving students' critical thinking, especially in social science learning.

This research is motivated by the challenges faced by teachers in implementing effective and smooth learning processes, particularly in implementing the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model in Islamic Cultural History (SKI) learning at MAN 2 Bengkulu City. Teachers, as crucial components in the learning process, need to pay attention to students' needs and characteristics in preparing meaningful learning. The PBL model is one of the alternative learning approaches that uses problems as a starting point for students to develop critical thinking skills. This research employed a qualitative approach with research subjects comprising teachers and eleventh-grade students at MAN 2 Bengkulu City. Data collection was conducted through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The research results identified several obstacles in PBL implementation, namely: (1) limited learning time; (2) minimal supporting facilities; (3) variations in student ability levels and characteristics; and (4) lack of interaction and communication between teachers and students. This research also produced strategies to overcome these obstacles, including thorough preparation, effective time management, and development of teachers' abilities to facilitate problem-based learning. These findings contribute to the development of more effective SKI learning practices with a PBL approach in madrasas.