The use of innovative project-based learning to elevate pre-service teachers’ critical and creative thinking skills

Rahmawati  Darussyamsu; Lufri  Lufri; Yuni  Ahda; Syakirah  Samsudin; Muhammad  Kristiawan

doi:10.18488/61.v13i2.4063

Authors

Rahmawati Darussyamsu Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6617-9918
Lufri Lufri Biology Department, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5473-2715
Yuni Ahda Biology Department, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0545-2965
Syakirah Samsudin Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3676-5393
Muhammad Kristiawan Educational Administration Department, Faculty of Education, Universitas Bengkulu, Indonesia. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1077-4013

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18488/61.v13i2.4063

Abstract

This study aims to develop an innovative project-based learning (PBL) that fits the purpose of fostering critical and creative thinking skills (CCTS). The innovations were made to the PBL’s syntax and referred to as RAHMA which stood for (1) Recognize the problem. (2) Analyze the problem. (3) Handle a project. (4) Monitor the progress. (5) Assess the result. Attempts were made to make the model valid and practical, capable of improving pre-service biology teachers’ (PSBTs’) CCTS and fitting the purpose of a pedagogical course. This study used Plomp’s research and development model which consisted of three stages: preliminary research, prototyping phase, and assessment phase. The results indicated that the PBL with RAHMA syntax was highly valid and practical. Furthermore, the instruments used to measure the CCTS were also highly valid. In conclusion, PBL with RAHMA syntax and its supporting tools are valid to enhance PSBTs’ CCTS. The implication highlights the necessity of using this learning model in the pedagogical courses that focus on designing products in teamwork.