The Effect of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) Model Using Diorama Media on Students' Critical Thinking Abilities in Elementary School

Abstract

This research is motivated by the low critical thinking ability of students in the Natural and Social Sciences (IPAS) subject. The purpose of the study is to determine the effect of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model assisted by diorama media on students' critical thinking ability. This study uses a quasi-experimental method with a nonequivalent control group design. The study population was all 48 third-grade students of SDN Pawenang. Consisting of 24 students of class III A and 24 students of class III B. The research instrument was a critical thinking test through pretest and posttest. The experimental class used the PBL model assisted by diorama media and the control class used conventional learning. The results showed that the average value of critical thinking ability of the experimental class increased from 41.25 to 89.17,   at a significance level of 5%, so there is a significant difference between the two classes. The N-Gain test of the experimental class obtained an average of 0.84, including the high category with an effectiveness level of 83.78%, including the effective category. The N-Gain test of the control class obtained an average of 0.47, including the medium category with an effectiveness level of 47.02%, including the less effective category. Based on these results, the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model assisted by diorama media has a significant effect on improving the critical thinking skills of third-grade students of Pawenang State Elementary School on the material of the layout of my residence in the 2025/2026 academic year.