Pengembangan Perangkat Pembelajaran Berbasis STEM untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematis dan Mutu Pembelajaran Siswa SMP

Abstract

Mathematical problem-solving is an essential competency for junior high school students in the twenty-first century. However, many students experience difficulties in solving contextual mathematical problems, while learning processes do not always promote active, contextual, collaborative, and student-centered learning. To address these issues, this study developed STEM-based mathematics learning devices integrating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into meaningful learning activities. The study aimed to produce learning devices that are valid, practical, and effective in improving students’ mathematical problem-solving skills and supporting learning quality. A Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE model, consisting of Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation, was employed. The research involved 30 eighth-grade students at SMP Negeri 1 Montasik. The developed products included a STEM-based teaching module, project-based student worksheets (LKPD), a mathematical problem-solving test instrument, and a learning-quality observation instrument. Data were collected through expert validation, questionnaires, tests, and observations and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment validity, Cronbach’s Alpha reliability, Shapiro–Wilk normality testing and paired-sample t-test. The results showed an overall validation mean of 4.61, categorized as very valid. Teacher and student responses reached 95.13% and 91.60%, respectively, indicating high practicality. Students’ mean problem-solving score increased from 59.10 to 82.93, with a difference of 23.83 points; the paired-sample t-test showed a significant difference (t = 39.166, df = 29, p < 0.001). The observed quality of the learning process reached 88.94%, categorized as very good. Thus, the STEM-based learning devices were valid, practical, effective, and supportive of very good learning quality