Problem-Based Learning and Its Effects on Critical Thinking Skills and Learning Motivation in Human Excretory System Education
Main Article Content
Abstract
Background. Developing critical thinking skills and learning motivation is essential in biology education, particularly for complex topics such as the human excretory system.
Aims. This study investigated the effectiveness of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) in improving students’ critical thinking skills and learning motivation simultaneously.
Methods. The study used a quantitative quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group. The participants were 52 Grade 11 students at SMA Smart Insani, equally assigned to an experimental group receiving PBL instruction and a control group receiving conventional instruction. Critical thinking skills were assessed using a test, while learning motivation was measured using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and effect-size analysis. The results demonstrated substantial differences between the two groups. In the experimental group, 50.00% of students achieved a high level, and 11.54% achieved a very high level of critical thinking, while learning motivation was predominantly distributed in the high and very high categories. MANOVA revealed a statistically significant simultaneous effect of PBL on critical thinking skills and learning motivation (p < 0.001). Effect-size analysis further demonstrated a strong effect on critical thinking skills (partial η² = 0.577) and a very strong effect on learning motivation (partial η² = 0.962).
Result. These findings indicate that PBL effectively supports both cognitive and affective learning outcomes, with a more pronounced effect on learning motivation. The study contributes context-specific evidence by simultaneously examining critical thinking and learning motivation in learning the human excretory system.
Conclusion. Therefore, PBL represents an effective instructional approach for promoting higher-order thinking and student motivation in senior high school biology.
Article Details
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