PERSEPSI MAHASISWA TERHADAP PENERAPAN PROJECT BASED LEARNING DALAM MENINGKATKAN CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS DI PERGURUAN TINGGI
Keywords:
Project-Based Learning, students perceptions, critical thinking skills, higher educationProject-Based Learning, students perceptions, critical thinking skills, higher education
Abstract
This study aims to examine students perceptions regarding the implementation of project-based learning (PjBL) to enhance critical thinking skills in higher education. It employs a qualitative descriptive approach with a classroom research design. The study involved active students from the Accounting Education Study Program at FKIP UNS who had completed the Spreadsheet Application course; the sample was selected using purposive sampling based on predetermined criteria. Data were collected through structured interviews guided by an interview protocol to corroborate survey findings on students' perceptions of PjBL implementation in the Spreadsheet Application course. Implementing PjBL through spreadsheet design projects provided a learning experience that encouraged students to understand problems, identify information needs, analyze data, evaluate alternative solutions, draw evidence-based conclusions, and reflect on their own thought processes. Key PjBL characteristics such as real-world problems, constructive inquiry, collaboration, independent learning, and direct involvement in project completion contributed to the development of skills in interpretation, analysis, inference, explanation, evaluation, and self-regulation. However, the effectiveness of PjBL implementation was influenced by the quality of execution, active student engagement, group dynamics, and the lecturer's role as a facilitator. The findings conclude that students view PjBL as an effective learning approach for enhancing critical thinking skills in higher education. Therefore, it is recommended that lecturers design projects that are authentic and contextual, while providing opportunities for collaboration, inquiry, and reflection on the learning process to ensure optimal development of critical thinking skills.
References
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Anazifa, R. D., & Djukri. (2017). Project- based learning and problem- based learning: Are they effective to improve student’s thinking skills? Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 6(2), 346–355. https://doi.org/10.15294/jpii.v6i2.11100.
Anggraini, P. D., & Wulandari, S. S. (2021). Analisis penggunaan model pembelajaran project based learning dalam peningkatan keaktifan siswa. Jurnal Pendidikan Administrasi Perkantoran, 9(2), 296. https://journal.unesa.ac.id/index.php/jpap/article/view/9902/4332.
Anggono, A., Hayati, K., Dini, S., & Munawarah, M. (2022). Pengaruh Project Based Learning Terhadap Hasil Belajar Metode Penelitian Akuntansi. Owner, 6(4), 4083–4091. https://doi.org/10.33395/owner.v6i4.1049
Beck, J. E., & Halim, H. (2008). Undergraduate internships in accounting: What is being done and how can we do it better?. Journal of Accounting Education, 26(3), 141-162. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaccedu.2008.07.001
Bell, S. (2010). Project-Based Learning for the 21st Century: Skills for the Future. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas, 83(2), 39–43. https://doi.org/10.1080/00098650903505415
Blumenfeld, P. C., Soloway, E., Marx, R. W., Krajcik, J. S., Guzdial, M., & Palincsar, A. (1991). Motivating project-based learning: Sustaining the doing, supporting the learning. Educational Psychologist, 26(3-4), 369–398. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15326985ep2603&4_8
Bonwell, C. C., & Eison, J. A. (1991). Active learning: Creating excitement in the classroom. ASHE-ERIC Higher Education Report No. 1.
Chen, C. H., & Yang, Y. C. (2019). Revisiting the effects of project-based learning on students’ academic achievement: A meta-analysis investigating moderators. Educational Research Review, 26, 71-81
Chi, M. T. H. (2009). Active-constructive-interactive: A conceptual framework for differentiating learning activities. Topics in Cognitive Science, 1(1), 73–105.
Ennis, R.H. (2015). Critical Thinking: A Streamlined Conception. In: Davies, M., Barnett, R. (eds) The Palgrave Handbook of Critical Thinking in Higher Education. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137378057_2
Facione, P. A. (1990). “The Delphi Report” Critical Thinking: A Statement of Expert Consensus for Purposes of Educational Assessment and Instruction. www.insightassessment.com650-697-5628
Freeman, S., Eddy, S. L., McDonough, M., Smith, M. K., Okoroafor, N., Jordt, H., & Wenderoth, M. P. (2014). Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 111(23), 8410–8415. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1319030111
Gambrill, E., & Gibbs, L. (2009). Critical thinking for helping professionals: A skills-based workbook (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
Guo, P., Saab, N., Post, L. S., & Admiraal, W. (2020). A review of project-based learning in higher education: Student outcomes and measures. International Journal of Educational Research, 102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2020.101586
Hasibuan, H., Sari, A., & Sinaga, M. (2025). Implementasi Project Based Learning di Perguruan Tinggi untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis: Sebuah Tinjauan. In Pubmedia Jurnal Penelitian Tindakan Kelas Indonesia (Vol. 2, Number 4). https://edu.pubmedia.id/index.php/ptk
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Kamaruddin, I., Subrayanti, D., Viktor Purhanudin, M., Amri, N., Negeri Makassar, U., P Pettarani, J. A., Rappocini, K., Makassar, K., Selatan, S., Bina Insani Sakti, A., & Sri Sudewi Maschun Sofwan Kawasan Sentiong Kec Sungai Bungkal, J. D. (2024). Project Based Learning (PjBL) Berbasis Etnosains Untuk Meningkatkan Ketrampilan Berpikir Kritis Mahasiswa : Tinjauan Pustaka. Journal on Education, 06(03), 17734–17743.
Kementerian Pendidikan, Kebudayaan, Riset, dan Teknologi Republik Indonesia. (2021). Modul Belajar Mandiri Bahasa Indonesia. Pusat Pengembangan dan Pemberdayaan Pendidik dan Tenaga Kependidikan (P4TK).
Kokotsaki, D., Menzies, V., & Wiggins, A. (2016). Project-based learning: A review of the literature. Improving Schools, 19(3), 267-277.
Kvale, S., & Brinkmann, S. (2009). InterViews: Learning the craft of qualitative research interviewing (2nd ed.). Sage Publications, Inc.
Loyens, S. M. M., van Meerten, J. E., Schaap, L., & Wijnia, L. (2023). Situating Higher-Order, Critical, and Critical-Analytic Thinking in Problem- and Project-Based Learning Environments: A Systematic Review. In Educational Psychology Review (Vol. 35, Number 2). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-023-09757-x
Maros, M., Korenkova, M., Fila, M., Levicky, M., & Schoberova, M. (2021). Project based learning and its effectiveness: evidence from Slovakia. Interactive Learning Environments. https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2021.1954036.
Miles, M.B., Huberman, A.M. and Saldana, J. (2014) Qualitative Data Analysis: A Methods Sourcebook. Sage, London.
Moore, K. D., & Stanley, T. (2010). Critical thinking and formative assessments: Increasing the rigor in your classroom. Eye On Education.
Muchtar, T., Andi Muh Akbar, S., & Saputra. (2025). PENGARUH DAN PERMASALAHAN PEMBELAJARAN PROJECT BASED LEARNING (PJBL). Jurnal Review Pnedidikan Dan Pengajaran, 8. http://journal.universitaspahlawan.ac.id/index.php/jrpp
Ramadhani, W. S., Azizah, U., & Nasrudin, H. (2024). Project-Based Learning on Critical Thinking Skills in Science Learning: Meta-analysis. SAR Journal - Science and Research, 136–142. https://doi.org/10.18421/sar72-10
Romadhon, K., Yuliawati, F., Fatonah, S., Nurjanna, U. A., Jannati, P., & Iskandar, R. (2023). Model Project Based Learning dan Dampaknya terhadap Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis Mahasiswa sebagai Calon Guru Madrasah Ibtidaiyah. Jurnal Imiah Pendidikan Dan Pembelajaran, 7(3), 483–492. https://doi.org/10.23887/jipp.v7i3.62361
Saad, A., & Zainudin, S. (2022). A review of project-based learning (PBL) and computational thinking (CT) in teaching and learning. Learning and Motivation, 78, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lmot.2022.101802
Sakulvirikitkul, P., Sintanakul, K., & Srisomphan, J. (2020). The design of a learning process for promoting teamwork using project-based learning and the concept of agile software development. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning, 15(3), 207–222. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v15i03.10480.
Scriven, M., & Paul, R. (2007). Defining Critical Thinking. Foundation for Critical Thinking.
Stefanou, C., Stolk, J. D., Prince, M., Chen, J. C., & Lord, S. M. (2013). Self-regulation and autonomy in problem- and project-based learning environments. Active Learning in Higher Education, 14(2). https://doi.org/10.1177/1469787413481132.
Sugiyono, S. (2013). Metode penelitian kuantitatif, kualitatif, dan kombinasi (mixed methods). (Cet.18). Bandung: Alfabeta.
Sumarni, W., & Kadarwati, S. (2020). Ethno-stem project-based learning: Its impact to critical and creative thinking skills. Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 9(1), 11–21. https://doi.org/10.15294/jpii.v9i1.21754.
Tafakur, T., Retnawati, H., & Shukri, A. A. M. (2023). Effectiveness of project-based learning for enhancing students critical thinking skills: A meta-analysis. JINoP (Jurnal Inovasi Pembelajaran), 9(2), 191–209. https://doi.org/10.22219/jinop.v9i2.22142
Terblanche, E. A. J., & De Clercq, B. (2021). A critical thinking competency framework for accounting students. Accounting Education, 30(4), 325–354. https://doi.org/10.1080/09639284.2021.1913614
Thomas, J. W. (2000). A REVIEW OF RESEARCH ON PROJECT-BASED LEARNING The Autodesk Foundation 111 McInnis Parkway San Rafael, California 94903 (415) 507-6336 Fax (415) 507-6339 http://www.autodesk.com/foundation.
Wahyu, R. (2016). Implementasi Model Project Based Learning (PJBL) Ditinjau dari Penerapan Kurikulum 2013. Jurnal Tecnoscienza, 49–62.
Yasushi, G. (2016). Development of Critical Thinking with Metacognitive Regulation. International Conference on Cognition and Exploratory Learning in Digital Age (CELDA 2016). Niigata University
Yustina, Syafii, W., & Vebrianto, R. (2020). The effects of blended learning and project-based learning on pre-service biology teachers’ creative thinking skills through online learning in the COVID-19 pandemic. Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 9(3), 408–420. https://doi.org/10.15294/jpii.v9i3.24706.
Anazifa, R. D., & Djukri. (2017). Project- based learning and problem- based learning: Are they effective to improve student’s thinking skills? Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 6(2), 346–355. https://doi.org/10.15294/jpii.v6i2.11100.
Anggraini, P. D., & Wulandari, S. S. (2021). Analisis penggunaan model pembelajaran project based learning dalam peningkatan keaktifan siswa. Jurnal Pendidikan Administrasi Perkantoran, 9(2), 296. https://journal.unesa.ac.id/index.php/jpap/article/view/9902/4332.
Anggono, A., Hayati, K., Dini, S., & Munawarah, M. (2022). Pengaruh Project Based Learning Terhadap Hasil Belajar Metode Penelitian Akuntansi. Owner, 6(4), 4083–4091. https://doi.org/10.33395/owner.v6i4.1049
Beck, J. E., & Halim, H. (2008). Undergraduate internships in accounting: What is being done and how can we do it better?. Journal of Accounting Education, 26(3), 141-162. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaccedu.2008.07.001
Bell, S. (2010). Project-Based Learning for the 21st Century: Skills for the Future. The Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas, 83(2), 39–43. https://doi.org/10.1080/00098650903505415
Blumenfeld, P. C., Soloway, E., Marx, R. W., Krajcik, J. S., Guzdial, M., & Palincsar, A. (1991). Motivating project-based learning: Sustaining the doing, supporting the learning. Educational Psychologist, 26(3-4), 369–398. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15326985ep2603&4_8
Bonwell, C. C., & Eison, J. A. (1991). Active learning: Creating excitement in the classroom. ASHE-ERIC Higher Education Report No. 1.
Chen, C. H., & Yang, Y. C. (2019). Revisiting the effects of project-based learning on students’ academic achievement: A meta-analysis investigating moderators. Educational Research Review, 26, 71-81
Chi, M. T. H. (2009). Active-constructive-interactive: A conceptual framework for differentiating learning activities. Topics in Cognitive Science, 1(1), 73–105.
Ennis, R.H. (2015). Critical Thinking: A Streamlined Conception. In: Davies, M., Barnett, R. (eds) The Palgrave Handbook of Critical Thinking in Higher Education. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137378057_2
Facione, P. A. (1990). “The Delphi Report” Critical Thinking: A Statement of Expert Consensus for Purposes of Educational Assessment and Instruction. www.insightassessment.com650-697-5628
Freeman, S., Eddy, S. L., McDonough, M., Smith, M. K., Okoroafor, N., Jordt, H., & Wenderoth, M. P. (2014). Active learning increases student performance in science, engineering, and mathematics. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 111(23), 8410–8415. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1319030111
Gambrill, E., & Gibbs, L. (2009). Critical thinking for helping professionals: A skills-based workbook (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
Guo, P., Saab, N., Post, L. S., & Admiraal, W. (2020). A review of project-based learning in higher education: Student outcomes and measures. International Journal of Educational Research, 102. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2020.101586
Hasibuan, H., Sari, A., & Sinaga, M. (2025). Implementasi Project Based Learning di Perguruan Tinggi untuk Meningkatkan Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis: Sebuah Tinjauan. In Pubmedia Jurnal Penelitian Tindakan Kelas Indonesia (Vol. 2, Number 4). https://edu.pubmedia.id/index.php/ptk
Hooks, B. (2010). Teaching critical thinking: Practical wisdom. Routledge.
Kamaruddin, I., Subrayanti, D., Viktor Purhanudin, M., Amri, N., Negeri Makassar, U., P Pettarani, J. A., Rappocini, K., Makassar, K., Selatan, S., Bina Insani Sakti, A., & Sri Sudewi Maschun Sofwan Kawasan Sentiong Kec Sungai Bungkal, J. D. (2024). Project Based Learning (PjBL) Berbasis Etnosains Untuk Meningkatkan Ketrampilan Berpikir Kritis Mahasiswa : Tinjauan Pustaka. Journal on Education, 06(03), 17734–17743.
Kementerian Pendidikan, Kebudayaan, Riset, dan Teknologi Republik Indonesia. (2021). Modul Belajar Mandiri Bahasa Indonesia. Pusat Pengembangan dan Pemberdayaan Pendidik dan Tenaga Kependidikan (P4TK).
Kokotsaki, D., Menzies, V., & Wiggins, A. (2016). Project-based learning: A review of the literature. Improving Schools, 19(3), 267-277.
Kvale, S., & Brinkmann, S. (2009). InterViews: Learning the craft of qualitative research interviewing (2nd ed.). Sage Publications, Inc.
Loyens, S. M. M., van Meerten, J. E., Schaap, L., & Wijnia, L. (2023). Situating Higher-Order, Critical, and Critical-Analytic Thinking in Problem- and Project-Based Learning Environments: A Systematic Review. In Educational Psychology Review (Vol. 35, Number 2). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-023-09757-x
Maros, M., Korenkova, M., Fila, M., Levicky, M., & Schoberova, M. (2021). Project based learning and its effectiveness: evidence from Slovakia. Interactive Learning Environments. https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2021.1954036.
Miles, M.B., Huberman, A.M. and Saldana, J. (2014) Qualitative Data Analysis: A Methods Sourcebook. Sage, London.
Moore, K. D., & Stanley, T. (2010). Critical thinking and formative assessments: Increasing the rigor in your classroom. Eye On Education.
Muchtar, T., Andi Muh Akbar, S., & Saputra. (2025). PENGARUH DAN PERMASALAHAN PEMBELAJARAN PROJECT BASED LEARNING (PJBL). Jurnal Review Pnedidikan Dan Pengajaran, 8. http://journal.universitaspahlawan.ac.id/index.php/jrpp
Ramadhani, W. S., Azizah, U., & Nasrudin, H. (2024). Project-Based Learning on Critical Thinking Skills in Science Learning: Meta-analysis. SAR Journal - Science and Research, 136–142. https://doi.org/10.18421/sar72-10
Romadhon, K., Yuliawati, F., Fatonah, S., Nurjanna, U. A., Jannati, P., & Iskandar, R. (2023). Model Project Based Learning dan Dampaknya terhadap Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis Mahasiswa sebagai Calon Guru Madrasah Ibtidaiyah. Jurnal Imiah Pendidikan Dan Pembelajaran, 7(3), 483–492. https://doi.org/10.23887/jipp.v7i3.62361
Saad, A., & Zainudin, S. (2022). A review of project-based learning (PBL) and computational thinking (CT) in teaching and learning. Learning and Motivation, 78, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lmot.2022.101802
Sakulvirikitkul, P., Sintanakul, K., & Srisomphan, J. (2020). The design of a learning process for promoting teamwork using project-based learning and the concept of agile software development. International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning, 15(3), 207–222. https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v15i03.10480.
Scriven, M., & Paul, R. (2007). Defining Critical Thinking. Foundation for Critical Thinking.
Stefanou, C., Stolk, J. D., Prince, M., Chen, J. C., & Lord, S. M. (2013). Self-regulation and autonomy in problem- and project-based learning environments. Active Learning in Higher Education, 14(2). https://doi.org/10.1177/1469787413481132.
Sugiyono, S. (2013). Metode penelitian kuantitatif, kualitatif, dan kombinasi (mixed methods). (Cet.18). Bandung: Alfabeta.
Sumarni, W., & Kadarwati, S. (2020). Ethno-stem project-based learning: Its impact to critical and creative thinking skills. Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 9(1), 11–21. https://doi.org/10.15294/jpii.v9i1.21754.
Tafakur, T., Retnawati, H., & Shukri, A. A. M. (2023). Effectiveness of project-based learning for enhancing students critical thinking skills: A meta-analysis. JINoP (Jurnal Inovasi Pembelajaran), 9(2), 191–209. https://doi.org/10.22219/jinop.v9i2.22142
Terblanche, E. A. J., & De Clercq, B. (2021). A critical thinking competency framework for accounting students. Accounting Education, 30(4), 325–354. https://doi.org/10.1080/09639284.2021.1913614
Thomas, J. W. (2000). A REVIEW OF RESEARCH ON PROJECT-BASED LEARNING The Autodesk Foundation 111 McInnis Parkway San Rafael, California 94903 (415) 507-6336 Fax (415) 507-6339 http://www.autodesk.com/foundation.
Wahyu, R. (2016). Implementasi Model Project Based Learning (PJBL) Ditinjau dari Penerapan Kurikulum 2013. Jurnal Tecnoscienza, 49–62.
Yasushi, G. (2016). Development of Critical Thinking with Metacognitive Regulation. International Conference on Cognition and Exploratory Learning in Digital Age (CELDA 2016). Niigata University
Yustina, Syafii, W., & Vebrianto, R. (2020). The effects of blended learning and project-based learning on pre-service biology teachers’ creative thinking skills through online learning in the COVID-19 pandemic. Jurnal Pendidikan IPA Indonesia, 9(3), 408–420. https://doi.org/10.15294/jpii.v9i3.24706.
Published
2026-10-28
How to Cite
Palupi, W. I. R., & Muchsini, B. (2026). PERSEPSI MAHASISWA TERHADAP PENERAPAN PROJECT BASED LEARNING DALAM MENINGKATKAN CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS DI PERGURUAN TINGGI. Didaktik : Jurnal Ilmiah PGSD STKIP Subang, 12(04), 529 - 549. https://doi.org/10.36989/didaktik.v12i04.19743
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Articles
