2026-07-26T05:56:13Z https://imrecsjournal.com/journals/index.php/pedrev/oai

oai:ojs.imrecsjournal.com:article/315 2026-07-01T05:54:28Z pedrev:ART driver

Problem-Based Learning in Algebra: Fostering Critical Thinking Skills Among Middle School Students Ovan, Ovan Sirate, Sitti Fatimah Sangkala Mulyati, Mulyati This study examines the effectiveness of Problem-Based Learning (PBL) in improving Grade 8 students’ critical thinking skills in algebraic problem solving. A quasi-experimental design was employed with 53 students, divided equally between an experimental group receiving PBL instruction and a control group receiving conventional instruction. Students’ critical thinking abilities were measured with pre- and post-tests, and the data were analyzed with independent-samples t-tests, paired-samples t-tests, normalized gain (N-gain), and effect size. The results revealed that both groups had comparable initial abilities, as indicated by the non-significant difference in pre-test scores. However, after the intervention, the experimental group achieved a significantly higher mean score compared to the control group (p 0.001). Within-group analysis showed that both groups improved significantly, but the magnitude of improvement was substantially greater in the PBL group. This is further supported by the N-gain results, which showed that the experimental group reached the moderate-to-high category, while the control group remained in the moderate category. The calculated effect size (d = 1.26) indicates a strong practical impact of PBL on students’ critical thinking skills. Additionally, gender-based analysis showed no significant differences, suggesting that PBL is equally effective for both male and female students. These findings indicate that Problem-Based Learning (PBL) creates a more effective environment for enhancing students’ critical thinking skills through structured problem-solving activities, collaborative discussions, and reflective reasoning processes. The study emphasizes the significance of student-centered learning approaches in mathematics education and recommends integrating PBL into classroom instruction to promote higher-order thinking skills and deeper conceptual understanding among students. Keywords: Problem-Based Learning, Critical Thinking Skills, Algebra, Middle School Students. Institute of Multidisciplinary Research and Community Service 2026-06-30 info:eu-repo/semantics/article info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf https://imrecsjournal.com/journals/index.php/pedrev/article/view/315 10.61436/pedrev/v5i2.pp223-232 Pedagogy Review; Vol 5, No 2 (2026): Pedagogy Review; 223-232 3025-6771 eng https://imrecsjournal.com/journals/index.php/pedrev/article/view/315/138 https://imrecsjournal.com/journals/index.php/pedrev/article/downloadSuppFile/315/121 Copyright (c) 2026 Ovan*, Sitti Fatimah Sangkala Sirate, Mulyati https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0