Analysis of the Development Needs for STEAM-PjBL Based Electronic Student Worksheets to Enhance Critical Thinking Skills among Elementary School Students

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the needs for the development of Electronic Student Worksheets (E-LKPD) based on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and Project-Based Learning (PjBL) to enhance the critical thinking skills of Elementary School (SD) students. Fostering 21st-century skills through active and relevant methods is crucial in contemporary education. The research employs a Research and Development (R&D) approach, specifically utilizing the Analysis stage of the ADDIE model. Data was collected through a survey (questionnaire) from 25 students in Class V C at SDN 09 Bengkulu City, focusing on their current learning experiences and specific E-LKPD requirements.The analysis results indicate a strong and urgent need for innovation in teaching materials. A majority of students (55%) expressed dislike for conventional LKPD, yet showed very high enthusiasm for project-based learning (85%) and the use of LKPD in a digital format (90%). Students explicitly require E-LKPD that is easily accessible on mobile devices (80%), equipped with videos/animations (95%), and presents tasks that challenge higher-order critical thinking skills, particularly in generating new ideas or solutions (85%).In conclusion, there is a significant gap between the currently available teaching tools and students' needs for active, digital, and project-oriented learning. The proposed development of STEAM-PjBL-based E-LKPD is highly relevant and urgent to create a more dynamic and effective learning environment for cultivating critical, creative, and collaborative thinking skills in elementary school students.