Enhancing Students^ Creative Thinking Skills through STEM Education
Nuraini Sirajudin1, Joko Suratno2*, and Pamuti3

1Department of Biology Education, University of Khairun, Indonesia
2Department of Mathematics Education, University of Khairun, Indonesia
3Department of Elementary Teacher Education, University of Khairun, Indonesia
*Coresponding Author^s E-mail: joko_unkhair[at]yahoo.co.id

Abstract

The problem faced in classroom learning was rarely a learning activity that was able to improve creative thinking skills consistently. Therefore, an alternative was needed to solve the problem. One alternative of the learning activity that could be used as a tool for improving the basic skills needed in this century in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. STEM was suggested to be integrated into 21st-century learning. Science ability means that the ability of students to use knowledge of scientific and method to know all of the animals, plants, and other things existing in nature and the proficiency to take part in making decisions to influence it. Technology capabilities can mean that students^ knowledge in terms of using new technology, understanding how to develop new technologies, and having the ability to analyze how new technologies affect the world, nations, community, and individuals. Engineering capabilities is meaningful understanding of how to develop technology through a process engineering the theme of project-based learning by integrating on several different subjects. While the ability of mathematics is the ability to communicate, reason, and analyze ideas effectively and from how to interpret, solve, formulate, and behave solutions to problems of mathematics in applying different conditions. This study aimed to describe the effectiveness of the STEM learning model in improving the creative thinking skills of students. It was a quasi-experimental research with Posttest-Only Design with Nonequivalent Groups. Based on data analysis, there was an effect of STEM education on students^ creative thinking skills. Based on the research results obtained from students^ creativity varies between low and moderate and the answers to the creativity tests given show lower results than expected.

Keywords: Creative Thinking- STEM Education

Topic: STEM Education