The influence of the problem based learning (PBL) learning model on problem solving abilities in arithmetic material

Abstract

Problem-solving ability is one of the essential competencies that students must possess in mathematics learning, particularly in arithmetic. However, based on observations conducted at Madrasah Aliyah Nurul Islam Pungging Mojokerto, students’ problem-solving abilities were still relatively low due to the teacher-centered learning process. This study aimed to determine the effect of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model on the mathematical problem-solving abilities of tenth-grade students in arithmetic material. This study employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental method with a nonequivalent control group design. The sample consisted of 48 students, including 24 students from class X TA 1 as the experimental group and 24 students from class X TA 2 as the control group. The sampling technique used was cluster sampling. The research instruments included problem-solving ability tests (pretest and posttest) and student response questionnaires. Data were analyzed using the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, Levene’s homogeneity test, and the Mann-Whitney U test with the assistance of SPSS software. The results indicated a significant improvement in the problem-solving abilities of students in the experimental class. The Mann-Whitney U test yielded an Asymp. Sig. (2-tailed) value of 0.036, which was lower than 0.05. Therefore, H₀ was rejected and H₁ was accepted. The findings demonstrate that the implementation of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model has a significant positive effect on the mathematical problem-solving abilities of tenth-grade students at Madrasah Aliyah Nurul Islam Pungging Mojokerto.