EFEKTIVITAS METODE PROBLEM BASED LEARNING PADA MATA PELAJARAN PENDIDIKAN AGAMA ISLAM DALAM MENINGKATKAN KEMAMPUAN BERPIKIR KRITIS PESERTA DIDIK DI MTs AL-HIKMAH LAMPUNG UTARA TAHUN PELAJARAN 2025/2026

Abstrak

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the Problem Based Learning method in Islamic Religious Education subjects in improving students’ critical thinking skills at MTs Al-Hikmah Lampung Utara in the 2025/2026 academic year. Problem Based Learning is a student-centered learning method through solving real-life problems so that it can train critical thinking, analytical skills, and problem-solving abilities. In Islamic Religious Education learning, the implementation of this method is expected to increase student involvement in the learning process and help students understand the material more deeply. This research employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental method. Data collection techniques included observation, tests, questionnaires, and documentation. The research subjects consisted of eighth-grade students of MTs Al-Hikmah Lampung Utara who were divided into experimental and control classes. Data analysis was carried out using statistical tests to determine differences in students’ critical thinking skills before and after the implementation of the Problem Based Learning method. The results showed that the implementation of the Problem Based Learning method had a positive effect on improving students’ critical thinking skills. Students in the experimental class showed improvement in analyzing problems, expressing opinions, constructing arguments, and finding solutions to problems related to Islamic Religious Education materials. In addition, students became more active and enthusiastic in participating in the learning process compared to conventional learning methods. However, several obstacles were found in implementing the Problem Based Learning method, such as limited learning time, differences in students’ abilities, and teacher readiness in managing problem-based learning. Therefore, good learning planning and teachers’ classroom management skills are needed so that the implementation of Problem Based Learning can run effectively.