THE EFFECT OF APPLYING THE PROBLEM SOLVING LEARNING MODEL ON STUDENTS' CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the effect of applying the problem solving learning model on students' critical thinking skills. The problem solving learning model was chosen because it is considered capable of stimulating students to be active in the learning process, identify problems, and find solutions independently or in groups. This is in line with the needs of 21st century education which emphasizes critical thinking skills as one of the main skills that students must have to face global challenges.This research uses a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental research design. The population in this study were class VIII students at a junior high school in the 2023/2024 academic year. The research sample consisted of two randomly selected classes, with one class as an experimental group using a problem solving learning model and the other class as a control group using conventional learning methods. The research instrument is a critical thinking skills test that has been previously validated, as well as an observation sheet to observe the learning process.The results showed that there were significant differences between the experimental group and the control group in terms of critical thinking skills. Students who learn using problem solving models show a higher increase in critical thinking skills compared to students who learn using conventional methods. This can be seen from the results of the critical thinking skills test which shows that the average score of the experimental group is significantly higher than the control group. The application of the problem solving learning model also has a positive impact on student involvement in learning. Observations show that students are more active in discussing, asking questions, and providing solutions to problems presented in learning. These findings support that the problem solving model not only improves critical thinking skills, but is also able to create a more interactive and meaningful learning atmosphere.This research concludes that the problem solving learning model has a significant influence on students' critical thinking skills. Therefore, this model is recommended to be applied more widely in the learning process, especially in subjects that require problem solving and decision making. It is hoped that these findings can become a reference for teachers and educational practitioners in designing effective learning strategies to develop students' critical thinking skills.