The Effectiveness of Developing Interactive PowerPoint Based on Problem Based Learning (PBL) on Genetics Material to Improve Students' High Order Thinking Skills

Abstract

The urgency of this research stems from the need for innovative learning media that integrates technology with pedagogical strategies to foster students' higher-order thinking skills in Genetics courses. Genetics material is often considered complex, requiring a learning approach that is not only theoretical but also contextual and interactive. Therefore, the development of interactive PowerPoint media based on Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is crucial to address the limitations of conventional learning. This study aims to test the effectiveness of using PBL-based interactive Power Point in improving students' higher-order thinking skills, especially in the analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of genetic concepts. The method used was an experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design. The subjects were biology education students divided into two groups: an experimental group using interactive PowerPoint based on PBL and a control group using conventional presentation media. The research instruments were a high-level thinking ability test and a questionnaire assessing students' responses to the learning media. Data were analyzed using a t-test to determine differences in ability improvement between groups. The results showed that the experimental group experienced significant improvements in higher-order thinking skills compared to the control group. Furthermore, student responses to the PBL-based interactive PowerPoint were very positive, with the majority stating that the medium was engaging, easy to use, and helpful in understanding abstract genetic concepts. The conclusion of this study confirms that the development of PBL-based interactive Power Point is effective in improving students' high-level thinking skills in genetics material. The implication of this research is the need to implement interactive media based on innovative learning models in biology lectures to support 21st century learning, as well as as a reference for teachers in developing similar media in other biology materials.