Developing System Thinking of Grade 10 Science Students through Problem-based Learning with Causal Maps

Abstract

This research aims to enhance students' systems thinking through problem-based learning (PBL) with causal maps in the context of biology, specifically on the immune system. The study involved 19 science students. The research instruments included lesson plans incorporating PBL with causal maps and a systems thinking test. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis. Results showed that students' systems thinking improved across three cycles. In the first cycle, the average score was 7.26 out of 16 (45.39%), with 8 students achieving a good level. In the second cycle, the average score increased to 10.42 (65.13%), with 16 students reaching a good level. By the third cycle, the average score reached 13.84 (86.51%), and all 19 students achieved a good level. These findings suggest that incorporating problem-based learning with causal maps in science classrooms may enhance students' systems thinking and could be a valuable approach in science education.